How to Get Rid of Old Paint in Hackensack, NJ

✓ Last verified October 23, 2026 against official Hackensack, New Jersey and retailer sources. See sources.

Quick answer

Bergen County's household hazardous waste days are 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. New Jersey has no PaintCare program.

Illustration of three leftover paint cans and a paintbrush

Your options in Hackensack

BCUA household hazardous waste day Free

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 or business waste. Containers larger than five gallons aren't accepted, and materials not in their original containers must be labeled.

Next date: Saturday, November 14, 2026, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. – 98 Empire Blvd., Moonachie (enter via Empire Blvd. only, not Mehrhof Rd.)
Bring: ID showing Bergen County residency
Help line: BCUA, 201-807-5825

Sources: 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. Hackensack's Public Works page doesn't give separate paint rules, so if you're unsure whether dried cans can go out with your garbage, check with the city's Sanitation office, 201-646-3955.

Sources: BCUA – 2026 Household Hazardous Waste Collection flyer (PDF); City of Hackensack – Public Works, Sanitation & Recycling

Old half-used paint cans with dried drips, brushes and a roller tray on a garage shelf — Leftover paint: check the Hackensack rules above before you set anything out or drive it to a drop-off.

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 hazardous waste events.
Don't bring containers larger than five gallons.
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 Hackensack'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. It's the last 2026 date on BCUA's flyer.

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 23, 2026. Rules, hours and fees change, so confirm with the source before you go.