The yard is not a gas can.

Take old gas to a household hazardous waste drop-off, not the ground, not the drain, and not the trash.

Stabilized fuel from last winter is probably still fine if it was sealed and treated properly. But if it smells sour, looks dark or varnishy, or just won’t burn clean, it’s done. Don’t try to “burn it off” in your mower or pour a little in the car to use it up—that’s just polluting your own equipment or clogging things up.

The right move is a household hazardous waste (HHW) program. Most counties have a drop-off site or collection event, and it’s often free. Use a sealed, approved gas can and leave it with them. You can also check with auto parts stores or some recycling centers, but call ahead—don’t just show up with a can.

Never dump it on dirt, gravel, or near storm drains. A quart of gas can contaminate thousands of gallons of groundwater. It’s not “old oil”—it’s a chemical problem.

A small trip to the HHW site beats poisoning the yard or the water table. Future you, your neighbors, and the planet will all thank you.