How to Get Rid of Old Paint in Garfield, NJ

✓ Last verified October 22, 2026 against official Garfield, New Jersey and retailer sources. See sources.

Quick answer

Garfield's hazardous waste collection is run by the Bergen County Utilities Authority (BCUA).
BCUA accepts all types of paints and varnishes, free for Bergen County residents with ID.
Next event: Saturday, November 14, 2026, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., at 98 Empire Blvd., Moonachie (enter via Empire Blvd. only).
Empty containers and hardened paint cans count as garbage, per BCUA.

Illustration of three leftover paint cans and a paintbrush

Your options in Garfield

BCUA household hazardous waste day Free

Garfield's Public Works page points residents to BCUA for hazardous waste. BCUA's 2026 flyer lists "Paints & Varnishes – All Types" among accepted materials. Events are free for Bergen County residents only, with ID required and no commercial vehicles. You stay in your vehicle while staff unload materials from your trunk.

Next date: Saturday, November 14, 2026, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. – 98 Empire Blvd., Moonachie (enter via Empire Blvd. only)
Bring: ID showing Bergen County residency
BCUA: 201-641-2552; help line 201-807-5825

Sources: City of Garfield – Public Works; Bergen County Utilities Authority – Household Hazardous Waste; BCUA – 2026 Household Hazardous Waste Collection flyer (PDF)

Hardened paint and empty cans: garbage Free

BCUA's flyer says not to bring empty containers or hardened paint cans to the event, because they're garbage. Paint that has fully dried in the can can go out with regular trash.

Source: BCUA – 2026 Household Hazardous Waste Collection flyer (PDF)

Don't do this

Don't bring empty or hardened paint cans to BCUA. They're garbage.
Don't bring electronics or tires to BCUA events.
Don't pour paint down a drain or storm sewer.

Or pay someone to haul it

If you can't get it to a drop-off site, or can't wait for city pickup, a junk-removal service can take it from inside your home. Prices depend on the company, your location and the size of the load, so get a quote first. Ask whether they recycle or donate items and whether they follow Garfield's rules, especially for electronics and paint.

Frequently asked questions

When is the next Bergen County hazardous waste day?

Saturday, November 14, 2026, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., at 98 Empire Blvd., Moonachie. It's free for Bergen County residents with ID.

Does BCUA accept latex paint?

BCUA's 2026 flyer lists "Paints & Varnishes – All Types" among accepted items. It says hardened paint cans are garbage.

Is there a PaintCare drop-off in New Jersey?

No. PaintCare's program list doesn't include New Jersey. A paint stewardship bill (S666) was introduced in 2026 but hasn't become law.

Sources

All checked on October 22, 2026. Rules, hours and fees change, so confirm with the source before you go.