Figuring out where to dispose of an old lawn mower is a common task for homeowners. Disposing of an old lawn mower responsibly may involve your local municipal waste facility’s metal recycling program, but that’s just one of several options available to you.
You might be upgrading to a new model or finally dealing with a broken machine. Either way, you need a safe and legal way to get rid of it. This guide will walk you through all the practical steps and locations.
We’ll cover recycling centers, retailer take-back programs, donation ideas, and even how to prepare your mower for disposal. Let’s get started.
Where To Dispose Of Old Lawn Mower
Your primary options for lawn mower disposal fall into a few clear categories. The best choice depends on your mower’s condition, your local resources, and whether you want to spend any money.
Here are the main avenues to consider first. Each one will be explained in greater detail in the sections that follow.
- Local Recycling Centers and Scrap Yards
- Municipal Waste or Bulk Pickup Services
- Retailer Take-Back and Trade-In Events
- Donation to Charities or Community Programs
- Reselling or Giving Away Online
Check With Your Local Recycling Center
This is often the most straightforward and eco-friendly solution. Many communities have designated facilities for handling metal appliances and engine-powered equipment.
Call ahead or check your town’s website. You need to confirm they accept lawn mowers and ask about any specific preparation rules.
Most centers will require you to drain all fluids. This is a critical safety and environmental step.
How To Prepare Your Mower For Recycling
Taking a few minutes to prepare your mower makes the process smoother for the facility and ensures it gets recycled properly. Follow these steps.
- Drain the Gasoline: Run the engine until it stalls to use up as much fuel as possible. For the remaining fuel, use a siphon pump to remove it from the tank into an approved gasoline container. Never pour gas down a drain or on the ground.
- Drain the Engine Oil: Locate the oil drain plug, typically underneath the mower deck. Place a pan underneath, remove the plug, and let the oil drain completely. Transfer the used oil to a sealed container.
- Remove the Battery (If Electric): For electric or riding mowers, disconnect and remove the battery. Many centers handle batteries separately.
- Secure Loose Parts: Tape down the handle if it folds or secure any loose cables. This prevents hazards during transport.
Once prepared, you can transport the mower to the center. Some places may charge a small fee, while others accept them for free as scrap metal.
Municipal Bulk Waste Or Hazardous Waste Collection
Your city or county government likely offers a solution. Many provide seasonal bulk trash pickup days or permanent drop-off locations for large items.
Services vary widely. Some may classify mowers with engines as “white goods” or “appliances,” while others treat them as standard bulk trash.
Always check the official guidelines. Putting a mower out on the wrong day or without proper preparation could lead to a fine.
If your mower still has fluids in it, it may be considered household hazardous waste (HHW). Most municipalities operate HHW collection sites for items like oil, gas, and chemicals. You may need to take the fluids seperately to this facility.
Retailer Take-Back And Trade-In Programs
Many home improvement and lawn care stores offer disposal services, especially when you buy a new mower. This is a convenient option that solves two problems at once.
Stores like The Home Depot, Lowe’s, and local dealerships often run seasonal promotions. They might offer free haul-away of your old model with the delivery of a new one.
Some retailers also host annual “lawn and garden” recycling events. These are advertised locally and online. It’s worth asking when you’re shopping for a replacement.
A trade-in program is another possibility. While less common for mowers than for tools, some retailers offer a discount on a new purchase in exchange for your old equipment.
Donate Your Working Lawn Mower
If your mower still runs, giving it away is a fantastic option. It keeps it out of the landfill and helps someone in need.
Many organizations would welcome a functional lawn mower. Just make sure it’s in safe, working condition before you donate.
- Local Charities: Habitat for Humanity ReStores, Salvation Army, or Goodwill may accept working lawn equipment. Call your local branch first to confirm.
- Community Gardens or Churches: These groups often maintain large green spaces and rely on donated equipment.
- Vocational Schools or Youth Programs: Auto shop or small engine repair classes can use old mowers as teaching tools for students.
- Neighbors or Friends: Someone in your immediate community might be grateful for a working mower, even if it’s an older model.
Remember to include any owner’s manuals and to clean the mower before donation. It’s a nice gesture that shows you care.
Sell Or Give It Away Online
The internet makes it easy to find a new home for almost anything, including old lawn mowers. Even a non-working mower has value to a hobbyist or scrap collector.
List it on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Nextdoor. Be honest in your listing about the mower’s condition—whether it runs, needs repair, or is for parts only.
You can set a low price or mark it as “free.” A “free for pickup” listing often results in a very quick removal from your property. Just ensure the person is coming to take the entire mower, not just valuable metal parts.
For a non-working mower, you might attract someone who enjoys fixing small engines. Clearly state what’s wrong with it if you know, like “won’t start” or “needs a new blade.”
Disposing Of A Riding Lawn Mower
Riding mowers present a bigger challenge due to their size and weight. The principles are the same, but logistics are different.
Scrap metal yards are often the best bet for a non-working rider. They may pay you a small amount by weight. You will need a truck or trailer to transport it.
Some junk removal services specialize in large item pick-up. Companies like 1-800-GOT-JUNK? will come to your home, but this is a paid service.
Again, check with your municipal bulk pickup. They may have specific instructions for oversized items, requiring you to schedule a special appointment.
Important Safety Precautions Before Disposal
Safety is paramount when handling old machinery. Taking the right steps protects you, the transport workers, and the environment.
Always disconnect the spark plug wire on a gas mower. This prevents any accidental starts while you’re moving or preparing it.
Handle gasoline and oil with care. Use proper containers and take used fluids to a hazardous waste collection point. Do not mix them together.
Wear gloves and safety glasses, especially when draining fluids or handling sharp edges on the mower deck. The last thing you need is an injury during cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Just Put My Old Lawn Mower With The Regular Trash?
No, you should not place a lawn mower in your regular household trash bin. It is too large, contains hazardous materials, and is often prohibited by waste collection rules. It can damage trash trucks and poses environmental risks.
Is It Free To Dispose Of A Lawn Mower?
It can be. Many municipal drop-off centers accept them for free, especially if prepared correctly. Scrap yards might pay you a little. However, retailer haul-away or private junk removal services will involve a fee. Always check for costs beforehand.
What Parts Of A Lawn Mower Are Recyclable?
Most of a lawn mower is highly recyclable. The steel deck and engine block are valuable scrap metal. Plastic components may be recycled depending on local facilities. Tires and belts might need seperate handling. The fluids must be processed as hazardous waste.
How Do I Dispose Of An Electric Lawn Mower Battery?
Remove the battery from the mower. Many retailers that sell batteries, like auto parts stores, offer free battery recycling take-back. Your local hazardous waste facility will also accept them. Do not put lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries in the trash.
Where Can I Take Old Gasoline From My Mower?
Old or contaminated gasoline should be taken to a household hazardous waste (HHW) collection site. Your local government website will have the location and hours. Never mix it with other chemicals or dispose of it improperly.
Finding where to dispose of an old lawn mower is a manageable task once you know the options. Start by contacting your local waste authority or visiting their website for the most accurate, location-specific information.
By choosing recycling, donation, or a proper disposal service, you ensure your old equipment doesn’t harm the environment. You might even help someone else in the process. With the steps outlined here, you can clear out that old mower and reclaim your garage or shed space confidently.