Illinois residents will now pay a small additional fee when purchasing paint as the state launches a new paint recycling program aimed at reducing environmental hazards and improving waste management.
The program, operated by the nonprofit PaintCare, began December 1 and is designed to help both households and businesses safely recycle leftover paint. Environmental officials say leftover paint poses significant waste-management challenges and can create costly environmental and safety risks if not handled properly. To address the issue, the Illinois General Assembly passed the Paint Stewardship Law, signed by Governor JB Pritzker in 2023. The law requires paint manufacturers to run a statewide stewardship program focused on reducing unused paint, promoting reuse and recycling, and ensuring safe, environmentally responsible disposal. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency will oversee the program. Residents can now drop off leftover latex and oil-based paints—including interior and exterior paints, primers, stains, sealers, and varnishes—at participating paint retailers and local government facilities. Most locations accept at least five gallons per customer, though some allow more. Officials recommend calling ahead to confirm accepted quantities, paint types, and hours.
Recycling drop-off is free, but consumers will see a small fee added to new paint purchases to fund collection, transportation, processing, and public education.
PaintCare programs are already active in 11 states and Washington, D.C., with Maryland next in line. Illinois now joins that network, making paint recycling more accessible statewide.