How to dispose of a fire extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is a pressurized cylinder, so the trash isn't the place for it. Many can be refilled, and the ones that can't go to a fire-equipment dealer or a hazardous waste drop-off. Some transfer stations take them; plenty refuse them.
Short answer
- Not in the trash or recycling.
- Refill it if it's a refillable model — a fire-equipment dealer can tell you.
- Otherwise: a fire-extinguisher dealer or a household hazardous waste drop-off or event.
- Check your local site — acceptance varies a lot.
What the rules say
New York City's sanitation department says not to place fire extinguishers in trash or recycling, and to take them to a certified fire-extinguisher retailer or a hazardous waste disposal event, noting that most extinguishers are refillable.
Find a drop-off near you
Enter your city or ZIP for the nearest disposal sites. A fire extinguisher usually goes to a household hazardous waste area or event, so check the site's page or call before you drive.
Which sites take them
- Chicago's household hazardous waste site takes small fire extinguishers.
- Oklahoma City, Dayton, Ohio and Honolulu take them with other hazardous items.
- Raymond, New Hampshire charges a fee for an empty propane tank or fire extinguisher.
- Many don't: Manassas, Virginia, Guilford, Connecticut, Milwaukee, Clearwater, Florida and Conroe, Texas all list fire extinguishers among items they won't take.
Common questions
How do you dispose of a fire extinguisher?
Take it to a fire-extinguisher dealer or a household hazardous waste drop-off or event. New York City says not to put fire extinguishers in trash or recycling, and notes most are refillable.
Can I throw away an old fire extinguisher?
Not with regular trash. Check whether your local transfer station or hazardous waste program takes it; some do and many don't.
Can a fire extinguisher be refilled?
Many can. A fire-equipment dealer can inspect it and tell you whether it's refillable or should be replaced.