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Fire Extinguishers

Hazardous material

A fire extinguisher that still has pressure in it is hazardous material, never put it in the trash. The safest option is dropping it off, still charged, at a household hazardous waste facility or a local fire-equipment service company.

Curbside recycling?

No

Never put a pressurized fire extinguisher in curbside recycling or household trash, it can explode under compaction.

Safety note

A charged (pressurized) extinguisher is hazardous waste. Most municipal household hazardous waste programs accept charged extinguishers directly, which avoids the need to depressurize one yourself. If you do choose to depressurize one at home, some local guidance describes doing it outdoors, away from people and animals, by discharging the contents fully, then letting it sit and re-checking before disposing of the empty shell as scrap metal, but check your specific municipality's instructions first, since guidance varies.

How to prepare it

  • Check the pressure gauge before deciding how to dispose of it
  • Do not puncture or force open the cylinder

Common fees

Not confirmed

Quantity limits

Not confirmed

Residency restrictions

Not confirmed

Appointment required?

Not confirmed

Transporting it safely

Transport upright; keep the safety pin in place if present.

Recycling locations

Showing locations in our covered metros. Choose a metro to see only the locations there.

5 locations in covered metros

Related items

Frequently asked questions

Where can I recycle fire extinguishers?
A fire extinguisher that still has pressure in it is hazardous material, never put it in the trash. The safest option is dropping it off, still charged, at a household hazardous waste facility or a local fire-equipment service company.
Can fire extinguishers go in curbside recycling?
Never put a pressurized fire extinguisher in curbside recycling or household trash, it can explode under compaction.
Is there a safety concern with fire extinguishers?
A charged (pressurized) extinguisher is hazardous waste. Most municipal household hazardous waste programs accept charged extinguishers directly, which avoids the need to depressurize one yourself. If you do choose to depressurize one at home, some local guidance describes doing it outdoors, away from people and animals, by discharging the contents fully, then letting it sit and re-checking before disposing of the empty shell as scrap metal, but check your specific municipality's instructions first, since guidance varies.
Last verified 2026-08-13

Sources

Programs, hours, fees, eligibility, and accepted materials can change. Confirm details with the facility before traveling.

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