When your trusty mower sputters its last, figuring out how to get rid of old lawn mower becomes the next task. Getting rid of an old lawn mower involves options like recycling, donation, or arranging for a special waste pickup.
You can’t just leave it at the curb. It’s considered hazardous waste in many areas.
This guide walks you through every safe, responsible, and sometimes profitable method.
We’ll cover how to prepare your mower, where to take it, and what to do if it’s beyond repair.
How To Get Rid Of Old Lawn Mower
Your path to a clear garage starts here. The best method depends on your mower’s condition, your local rules, and how much effort you want to put in.
First, you need to assess the situation. Is the mower broken but mostly complete? Or is it a rusted heap of parts?
Your answer determines the best route. Let’s look at the primary options available to most homeowners.
Evaluate Your Lawn Mower’s Condition
Before you do anything, take a close look at your mower. This step saves you time and helps you choose the right disposal path.
Ask yourself these key questions:
- Does the engine turn over or start at all?
- Is the deck rusted through, or is it just surface rust?
- Are all the major parts (blade, wheels, handle) present and intact?
- Has it been properly stored, or was it left outside for years?
A mower that’s simply old but mechanically sound is a great candidate for donation or resale. One that’s clearly broken, leaking fluids, or heavily corroded likely needs recycling or professional disposal.
Drain All Fluids Safely
This is the most critical step for any mower containing gas or oil. Never dispose of a mower with fluids still in it. It’s an environmental hazard and often illegal.
Here’s how to drain fluids safely:
- Run the engine until it stops to use up as much gasoline as possible. If it won’t start, you’ll need to siphon or drain the gas tank manually.
- Place a drip pan under the oil drain plug. Tilt the mower carefully (spark plug up) to drain the engine oil completely. Refer to your manual for the plug location.
- For lawn tractors, you may also need to check for hydraulic fluid or coolant.
- Collect all fluids in approved containers. Do not mix gas and oil.
Take the used oil and gasoline to a local recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts them. Many accept these fluids for free.
Remove The Battery If Present
If you have a riding mower or an electric model, the battery must be handled separately. Car batteries and lead-acid batteries are highly recyclable but also toxic.
Wear gloves and safety glasses. Disconnect the negative (black) cable first, then the positive (red). Lift the battery out carefully.
Most retailers that sell auto batteries are required to take your old one for recycling, often for a small fee. This step is non-negotiable for safe disposal.
Separating The Battery For Recycling
Take the old battery directly to a designated drop-off point. Do not place it in your regular trash or recycling bin. The lead and acid inside are dangerous.
Stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and many Walmart service centers will take it.
Detach The Blade For Separate Handling
The cutting blade is sharp and heavy. It’s a good idea to remove it for safety before moving the mower. Use a wrench to hold the blade bolt steady while you turn it.
Wear heavy work gloves to protect your hands. Once removed, you can often recycle the metal blade with other scrap metal.
Some recycling centers will accept it this way. If you’re selling the mower for parts, include the blade but warn the buyer it’s sharp.
Primary Disposal And Removal Methods
With your mower prepared, it’s time to choose your disposal method. Here are the most common and effective ways to get rid of your old equipment.
Local Scrap Metal Recycling
This is one of the easiest ways to dispose of a non-working mower. Most of a mower’s body is steel, which scrap yards will gladly accept.
Call ahead to confirm they accept lawn mowers and ask about any preparation requirements. Some yards may ask you to remove the engine or tires.
You might even get a few dollars for the scrap weight. It’s not much, but it’s better than paying a fee.
Municipal Bulk Waste Or Hazardous Waste Pickup
Many city or county waste management services offer large item pickup days. You usually need to schedule this in advance.
Check your local municipality’s website for “bulk waste” or “large appliance” pickup rules. Crucially, you must inform them it’s a lawn mower, as it often falls under special handling due to the residual hazardous materials.
They will give you specific instructions on where to place it and may charge a small fee. Always follow there guidelines to avoid a fine.
Retailer Take-Back Programs
Some home improvement and outdoor power equipment retailers offer recycling programs. This is especially true when you are purchasing a new mower from them.
Stores like The Home Depot, Lowe’s, or local dealerships may have seasonal trade-in or recycling events. Even if they don’t advertise it, it’s worth asking if they can take your old model for proper disposal when you buy a new one.
Donation To Charity Or Community Program
If your mower is mechanically sound but you’re just upgrading, consider donation. Many charitable organizations, vocational schools, or community gardens would appreciate a working mower.
Call first to ensure they can use it. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity ReStore sometimes accept working outdoor power tools.
You get a clear conscience and may qualify for a tax deduction. Just be honest about the mower’s condition.
Selling For Parts Or As A Project
One person’s trash is another’s treasure. Even a non-running mower has value to a hobbyist or repair technician.
List it on online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or eBay. Be clear in your description: state it’s for parts/repair, note what’s wrong, and mention that fluids have been drained.
Price it low to move it quickly. This method requires some effort but can get the mower gone in a day or two.
Step-By-Step Guide For Specific Mower Types
Different mowers have slightly different disposal considerations. Here’s a quick breakdown by type.
Disposing Of A Gas-Powered Push Mower
Follow the core preparation steps: drain gas and oil, remove the blade. The lightweight body makes these relatively easy to transport.
Your best bets are scrap metal recycling or scheduled bulk waste pickup. Because of their small engines, some repair shops might take them for a minimal fee to part out.
Disposing Of An Electric Or Cordless Mower
The main concern here is the battery. For cordless mowers, the battery pack must be recycled separately at an electronics or battery recycling point.
Many big-box stores have bins for rechargeable batteries. The mower body itself, once the battery is out, is often simpler to recycle as it contains fewer hazardous materials than a gas model.
Disposing Of A Riding Lawn Mower Or Tractor
These are larger and more complex. The process is the same—drain all fluids (gas, oil, possibly coolant), remove the battery—but logistics are harder.
You will likely need a trailer to transport it. Scrap yards are a good option due to the significant metal weight. Some tractor dealerships may offer a haul-away service for a fee when you buy a new one.
Bulk waste pickup may also handle them, but you must schedule it and there’s probably a higher fee.
What Not To Do When Disposing Of A Mower
Avoid these common mistakes. They can harm the environment, get you fined, or create safety hazards.
- Do not leave it at the curb without authorization. Most regular trash services will not take it.
- Never dump gasoline or oil on the ground, down a drain, or into the trash. This is serious pollution.
- Avoid abandoning it in a field, woods, or vacant lot. This is illegal dumping.
- Do not try to burn it or dismantle it with unsafe tools. The fuel tank can explode, and parts are under tension.
- Don’t forget to check local regulations. Rules vary widely by city and county.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about lawn mower disposal.
Will The Garbage Company Pick Up My Old Lawn Mower?
Typically, no, not with your regular weekly trash. Lawn mowers are considered “white goods” or special waste due to their engines and fluids. You must contact your waste management provider to schedule a special bulk or hazardous waste pickup. There is usually a fee for this service.
Can I Recycle A Lawn Mower For Free?
Sometimes. If you take it to a scrap metal recycling yard, they often accept it for free and may even pay you a small amount for the metal. However, if it requires special handling of fluids, some centers may charge a nominal fee. Municipal hazardous waste drop-off days are often free for residents.
Where Can I Donate An Old Lawn Mower That Still Works?
Try local charities, churches, community gardens, or vocational training schools. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity ReStore may accept it. Always call ahead to confirm they have a need and can accept a gas-powered item. Be prepared to transport it to them.
How Do I Dispose Of Lawn Mower Gas And Oil?
Drain them into separate, sealed containers labeled “used gasoline” or “used motor oil.” Many auto parts stores (AutoZone, O’Reilly) and service stations accept used oil for recycling at no charge. Gasoline is trickier; call your local household hazardous waste facility for drop-off instructions. Never mix the two fluids.
Is It Worth Selling A Broken Lawn Mower?
It can be, if you have the time. List it online as “for parts or repair.” Price it low to attract hobbyists or mechanics looking for specific components like the wheels, engine block, or chassis. While you won’t get much, it’s often faster than waiting for a pickup and ensures the mower is reused.