How to dispose of diesel fuel starts with deciding whether it is still usable. Diesel is more stable than gasoline, and clean fuel stored properly can often be used in a tractor, generator, truck, or heating system. Old diesel that has absorbed water, grown microbial sludge, or been mixed with gasoline or oil should go to a household hazardous waste program or a facility that accepts used fuel. Never pour diesel on the ground, into drains, or into the trash. It contaminates soil and water and can be a fire hazard.
Can you still use it?
| Condition | What to do |
|---|---|
| Clear, stored in a sealed container | Use in diesel equipment |
| Slightly old but clean | Mix with fresh fuel in small amounts |
| Cloudy, with water at the bottom | Do not use; dispose |
| Dark sludge or slime | Microbial growth; dispose |
| Mixed with gasoline or oil | Dispose as hazardous waste |
Diesel stored for over a year or so can degrade, especially in warm, humid conditions. Additives and biocides extend storage life. When in doubt, ask a diesel mechanic.
Where to take old diesel
- Household hazardous waste sites commonly accept diesel and other fuels.
- Collection events run by counties.
- Auto shops and fuel distributors that collect used fuel, sometimes for a fee.
- Waste oil burners at some shops accept contaminated diesel; ask first.
See where to dump household hazardous waste.
Containers and transport
- Use approved fuel containers, traditionally yellow for diesel.
- Do not mix diesel with gasoline, oil, or solvents.
- Seal and label containers.
- Keep them upright and secure in the vehicle.
- Ventilate and avoid carrying large amounts.
Check limits on how much fuel you can bring per visit. See do not haul gasoline in a rental.
Spills
Soak up small spills with cat litter, sawdust, or absorbent pads. Let them sit, then bag the material and ask your hazardous waste program how to dispose of it. Do not hose diesel into storm drains. Large spills or spills into water should be reported to local authorities.
Draining equipment
If you are disposing of a diesel generator, tractor, or vehicle, drain the fuel into approved containers first. Many scrap yards require tanks to be empty. See recycling used motor oil for engine oil.
Fuel tanks
Old home heating oil tanks and farm fuel tanks may need professional removal and cleaning. Contact a licensed tank service.
Related fuels
Kerosene and gasoline follow similar rules. See how to dispose of kerosene and leftover gasoline at home.
Why not pour it out
Diesel spreads through soil, harms plants and aquatic life, and can reach groundwater. Pouring fuel out can violate environmental laws and lead to fines.
How to dispose of diesel fuel FAQ
Can I throw diesel fuel in the trash?
No, take it to a household hazardous waste program.
Does diesel go bad?
Yes, it can degrade or grow microbes over time, especially with water.
Can I mix old diesel with new?
Small amounts of clean old diesel can be mixed; contaminated fuel cannot.
Will auto shops take diesel?
Some accept used fuel; call ahead.
How do I clean up a diesel spill?
Absorb it with litter or pads and dispose of the material properly.
The bottom line
How to dispose of diesel fuel: use clean diesel in equipment, and take old, contaminated, or mixed fuel in sealed, approved containers to a household hazardous waste site or a shop that accepts used fuel. Never pour it out. Use the map to find hazardous waste drop-offs near you.
Guides and tools
Household hazardous waste guide · Motor oil and filter guide · Dump cost calculator · All material guides