Propane Gas Tank Disposal

Propane gas cylinders are used to fuel items including gas grills, torches, and camping equipment such as stoves, lanterns, and heaters. Propane cylinders are either single-use or refillable.

Propane is flammable and explosive.

An empty tank still contains a small amount of propane gas, and may explode in a garbage truck or when the garbage is processed. Propane tanks in garbage are a safety hazard to people and can damage equipment.

Most scrap metal yards will not accept intact propane tanks, even if they are empty.

Single-use or Small Refillable Propane Disposal

Take unusable or unwanted propane tanks (single-use or refillable) to a propane marketer, pressurized gas retailer, or gas service company.

Large Propane Cylinder Disposal

Local companies that will accept up to 100-pound refillable Propane Cylinders for disposal, including Coleman 16-ounce/1-pound propane canisters, as of June 2017:

R&L Enterprise¹
Only accepts propane and propane tanks. Does not accept any other hazardous waste material.
14305 Central NW (Exit 149 off Interstate 40 (Atrisco Vista), 1 mi west on N. Frontage located in RV park)
Albuquerque, NM 87121
505-836-4772

Notes

1. SWMD recommends contacting the company prior to the drop-off of cylinder.