Pasadena residents can exchange up to two used oil filters for free replacements during a city-sponsored event Saturday, Nov. 8, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at AutoZone, 550 N. Lake Ave. Free oil recycling kits will also be available while supplies last.
The event, hosted by the Pasadena Department of Public Works, is funded through the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery’s (CalRecycle) Used Oil Payment Program, which awarded $6 million statewide for Fiscal Year 2024–25. Pasadena’s specific grant amount was not disclosed, but the city qualifies based on population and program compliance, exceeding requirements with eight certified collection centers and a monthly curbside pickup service.
To participate, residents must bring used oil filters. Each new filter is valued up to $15, with a maximum household benefit of $30. Recycling kits, estimated at up to $50 based on similar county programs, will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
AutoZone, the event site, is a certified used oil collection center that accepts used motor oil and filters year-round. The store is partnering with the city to advance environmental goals outlined in Pasadena’s Climate Action Plan and Zero Waste Pasadena 2040 Plan, which targets an 87% landfill diversion rate by 2040.
The exchange program aims to curb illegal dumping and encourage proper recycling. State data shows each used oil filter retains about 10 ounces of oil and contains roughly one pound of reusable steel. Recycling all filters sold annually in California could recover 67 million pounds of steel—enough to build three stadiums. Improper disposal poses environmental risks, as one gallon of used motor oil can contaminate 1 million gallons of water.
Pasadena’s curbside oil and filter recycling program has operated for more than 15 years. Residents with city refuse service can schedule free monthly pickups by calling (626) 744-7311 at least one business day before their regular trash day. Oil must be placed in approved containers at the curb by 7 a.m. on pickup day.
