The Department of Sanitation does not collect pressurized oxygen or acetylene tanks because they can explode when compressed by garbage trucks.

You should exchange old pressurized oxygen and acetylene tanks when purchasing a new cylinder.

If the retailer refuses to accept the old cylinder, or you aren't buying a new one, contact another dealer about correct disposal. Welding equipment and scrap metal dealers may accept old cylinders.

You can also drop off a tank at a SAFE Disposal Event. Events are held every spring and fall.

View the Fire Code.

You can dispose of your special waste at SAFE Disposal Events (Solvents, Automotive, Flammable, Electronics). SAFE Events are usually held in the spring and fall.

Only residential waste from New York City is accepted. You must bring a valid ID and proof of NYC residency, such as a phone or utility bill.

Commercial waste and commercial vehicles are not allowed at SAFE Events.

Learn more about SAFE Disposal Events.

Items Accepted

  • Automotive products
    • Antifreeze
    • Car batteries
    • Gasoline
    • Motor oil
    • Transmission fluid
  • Batteries
  • Cleaning products
  • Corrosive liquids
  • Cosmetics or beauty products
    • Hair developer
    • Nail polish
  • Electronics
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Flammable liquids
  • Gas, helium, oxygen, or propane tanks
  • Ink or toner cartridges
  • Lawn and garden care products
  • Light bulbs (compact fluorescent or tubes)
  • Medical waste
    • Medication
    • Sharps (syringes, lancets)
  • ​Paint
    • Paint cans
    • Spray paint
  • Thermometers and thermostats

Items Not Accepted

  • Appliances with CFC or Freon
    • Air conditioners
    • Dehumidifiers
    • Refrigerators or freezers
  • Asbestos
  • Commercial waste
  • Cooking oil or grease
  • Tires
  • Waste generated from outside New York City

Upcoming SAFE Events

All events run from 10 AM to 4 PM, rain or shine.

Queens: Saturday, September 14, 2024
Cunningham Park, Ball Field Parking Lot
Cars enter on Francis Lewis Boulevard between Union Turnpike and Grand Central Parkway
Walk-in area available

Manhattan: Sunday, September 22, 2024
Union Square, North Plaza
South side of 17th Street, between Park Avenue South and Broadway
Cars approach from Park Avenue South & 20th Street
Walk-in area available

Brooklyn: Sunday, September 29, 2024
Brooklyn Army Terminal, Pier 4 Parking Lot
Cars line up at 63rd Street and 2nd Avenue (follow blue signs to Ferry Parking)
Co-Sponsored by NYCEDC

Staten Island: Saturday, October 19, 2024
Midland Beach Parking Lot 8
Father Capodanno Boulevard & Hunter Avenue
Cars approach from Slater Boulevard

Bronx: Saturday, October 26, 2024
Orchard Beach Parking Lot
Cars follow Park Drive to the end