Oil (Motor)
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Motor oil is petroleum oil used as a lubricant in motor vehicle engines.  Both new and used motor oil pose a threat to humans, animals, surface and ground water, and air quality if disposed of improperly.

It is illegal to put motor oil in the garbage or to pour motor oil on the ground or down the drain (Minnesota Statutes § 115A.916).  All places in Minnesota that sell motor oil must provide a collection tank for households’ used motor oil or post a sign with information concerning the nearest free collection site (Minnesota Statutes § 325E.11).

Do not mix used motor oil with antifreeze, water, gasoline, or other fluids.  Do not store used motor oil in a container previously used for antifreeze, bleach, paint, pesticides, or other chemicals.  Any residue left in the container may contaminate the oil.  A mixture of lubricants with nonlubricants cannot be recycled and must be disposed of as hazardous waste, which is more expensive than recycling.

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