Propane tank recycling: MMSD now accepting at Home HazMat sites

Propane tank recycling program

Milwaukee County residents now have a place to get rid of propane tanks properly, an option that has not been available for years.

MILWAUKEE - Milwaukee County residents now have a place to get rid of propane tanks properly, an option that has not been available for years.

What they're saying:

If thrown in the garbage, propane tanks pose a fire and/or explosion risk – especially in garbage trucks with compacting equipment.

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"They’re accumulating at people’s homes, and that’s not safe because they are flammable cylinders, or they’re in landfills, and they’ve obviously still got flammable gas inside them," said Paul McShane, Veolia general manager. "This will allow us to get them out of both those locations."

How to recycle propane tanks

What you can do:

There is no additional charge for dropping off propane tanks at Home HazMat Collections, which are free to visit, but only open to Milwaukee County residents. Check the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District website for times and dates when the locations are open.

There are three drop-off locations in and around Milwaukee County: 

• Milwaukee | 13th Street6060 S. 13th Street, Milwaukee (just north of College Avenue)
• 6060 S. 13th Street, Milwaukee (just north of College Avenue)
• Milwaukee | Lincoln Ave3879 W. Lincoln Avenue, Milwaukee
• 3879 W. Lincoln Avenue, Milwaukee
• Menomonee FallsW124N9451 Boundary Road, Menomonee Falls
• W124N9451 Boundary Road, Menomonee Falls

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Safely transport propane tanks 

Veolia North America provided the following tips on how residents can safely transport propane tanks:

• Inspect: Ensure the cylinder valve is tightly closed and check for damage, rust, or leaks. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, do not transport it yourself. Contact a propane professional.
• Label : The cylinder must be clearly labeled by the manufacturer as "propane".
• Keep it Upright : Always transport cylinders in an upright, vertical position. Secure them so they cannot tip, roll, or slide during transport.
• Ventilate: Transport cylinders in a well-ventilated area, like the bed of a pickup truck or trunk with windows open. Never transport in an enclosed passenger area.
• Secure Properly: Use straps, rope, or a milk crate to prevent movement. Place cylinders on a flat, stable surface away from direct sunlight.
• Avoid Heat Sources: Keep cylinders away from heat sources, open flames, and direct sunlight. Do not smoke while transporting.
• Drive Carefully : Avoid sudden stops and sharp turns. Drive directly to the collection site without unnecessary stops.