Compressed Gas Cylinders - Single-use/Non-working

Single-use compressed gas cylinders are commonly used for camp stoves, welding, filled with flammable propane or butane.

In general, compressed gas cylinders are exempt from California regulation when they are empty. Remove the valve or otherwise create a hole in the tank to ensure it is at atmospheric pressure, and dispose at a recycling yard or a scrap metal collector. Contact the manufacturer or local metal recyclers for possible recycling. For more information, visit Management of Compressed Gas Cylinders | CA Department of Toxic Substances Control dtsc.ca.gov/management-of-compressed-gas-cylinders/

Companies that specialize in gas cylinders may offer this service or have additional disposal suggestions. As possible, take it back to where you got it or have the supplier come pick it up. For situations other than common fuels, contact a hazardous waste pick-up hauler.

Bring home empty single-use gas containers from camping or tailgating for proper disposal. Consider switching to refillable camping gas 1lb cylinders. Go to RefuelYourFun.org for details and locations.

Nitrous oxide cylinders (~10in tall) from recreational use that are being sold and marketed for recreational inhalation, are creating serious public health, safety, and waste-management impacts across California. They are not accepted by most HHW Facilities in California, are very challenging items to dispose of, and may only be accepted by pick-up hazardous waste companies for a large fee. Learn about the issues and work on large and flavored nitrous oxide canisters. While the majority of these large canisters are aluminum, they are compressed gas, so have to be punctured, evacuated, and then crushed and shipped to be recycled; with compaction, they can explode.