Architectural Paint Stewardship

Manufacturers, retailers, contractors and consumers all have a role in ensuring that paint is not a wasted resource. Maine enacted a paint product stewardship law that requires manufacturers to establish a collection and recycling program for unwanted architectural paint (paint used on buildings).

Under this law, Maine retailers may only sell registered paint brands (pdf) or paint made by registered manufacturers (pdf).

PaintCare, a non-profit organization, is now accepting architectural paint at locations across Maine in accordance with its Maine Architectural Paint Stewardship Program Plan (pdf, 7.4 MB). On August 1, 2024, PaintCare proposed an amendment to the Maine Paint Stewardship Program Plan requesting an increase to the program fee structure. The fee increase was approved by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) on February 10, 2025 and will take effect October 1, 2025.

Maine paint recycling and drop-off locations — PaintCare

Contractors and consumers can return unused paint to retail sites and municipal waste handling sites that volunteer to collect the paint for recycling. PaintCare contracts to have the paint picked up from these collection sites, sorted by type, and delivered to facilities that recycle paint into new paint, into other products or blended for use as a fuel.

Visit PaintCare’s web site to find a collection site near you and to learn how the program works, including tips on how to reduce, reuse and recycle paint by:

  • buying the right amount,
  • finding ways to use it up, and
  • returning leftover paint to a PaintCare collection site for reuse, recycling into new paint, and use in other products or as a fuel supplement.
Can other states bring their paint to recycle in Maine?

No, this is a state funded program. The fee charge that Maine residents pay when purchasing paint directly funds this recycling program. Other state residents should not bring their paint into Maine for recycling.

What consistency of paint will NOT be accepted?

Paint containers that are empty or leaking will not be accepted. Also, paint that has been contaminated (filled with debris or other chemicals) or completely hardened is not accepted at drop-off sites.

When should I bring my paint to a recycling drop off location?

Please call the establishment you wish to drop off your paint products first, especially a retail establishment. This is to ensure they have available space for your paint. Also, please bring your paint during the the hours of operation for these drop off locations, do not leave your paint at their doors after hours. You can find these locations at Site Locator | Find a PaintCare Drop-off Site.

Annual Reports

Contact: Courtney Hafner (207) 314-3357