Working or Broken? The Decision That Determines Every Option
The single most important factor in getting rid of your old lawn mower is whether it works. A functioning mower has multiple valuable options, while a non-working unit is limited to disposal and recycling paths. Before you choose a method, answer this: Does it start, run, and cut grass?
- If YES: You can sell, trade in, or donate it. These options may even put money in your pocket.
- If NO: Your options shift to scrap metal yards, junk removal services, or municipal bulk pickup. These are primarily disposal-focused.
Even if it runs poorly, it may still qualify as “working” for some buyers or donation centers. A mower that needs a simple tune-up or blade sharpening is far more valuable than one with a seized engine.
How to Get Money for Your Old Lawn Mower (Working Units)
If your mower runs, you have several avenues to recoup some of its value.
Private Sale on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist
Listing your mower on local marketplaces is often the fastest way to sell it. Price it competitively by checking what similar models are selling for in your area. Include clear photos, the brand, model, engine size, and an honest description of its condition. Be prepared to answer questions about maintenance history and to arrange a safe, public meeting for the transaction.
Retailer Trade-In Programs
Major home improvement retailers sometimes offer trade-in or haul-away programs, especially during peak spring season. Home Depot and Lowe’s have historically offered programs where you can bring in an old mower for a discount on a new one. You must verify current program terms, participating locations, and any condition requirements, as these programs change seasonally. Call your local store before hauling the mower over.
Sell to a Small Engine Repair Shop
Local small engine repair shops may be interested in buying older, working mowers for parts or to refurbish and resell. This can be a quick, no-hassle sale. Contact shops in your area to ask if they purchase used equipment.
Free Ways to Get Rid of a Working Lawn Mower (Donate or Give Away)
If you want the mower gone without the effort of selling, donation or a free giveaway are excellent options.
Donate to Habitat for Humanity ReStore
Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations often accept used lawn and garden equipment, including working mowers. However, acceptance policies and condition standards are set by individual locations. You must call your local ReStore to confirm they are currently accepting lawn mowers and to learn their specific requirements.
Local Nonprofits and Community Groups
Organizations that assist low-income families or community gardens may welcome a donated mower. Check with local churches, community centers, or nonprofits focused on housing or food security.
Curbside Giveaway
Platforms like Facebook Marketplace (listed as “Free”), Nextdoor, or local “Buy Nothing” groups are perfect for giving items away. You can often have the mower picked up within hours. Simply place it at the curb with a “Free” sign and post an ad online.
How to Dispose of a Broken Lawn Mower (Scrap, Junk Removal, and Bulk Pickup)
For mowers that no longer run, the goal shifts to responsible and convenient disposal.
Scrap Metal Yard
Lawn mowers are primarily made of steel, which has scrap value. A scrap metal yard will take your old mower and pay you based on its weight. Any stated price-per-pound range requires current regional scrap pricing, as rates fluctuate with commodity markets. Call ahead to confirm they accept lawn mowers and ask about their current payout rate. You will likely need to drain all fluids first.
Junk Removal Service
Services like 1-800-GOT-JUNK offer convenient, same-day or next-day pickup. They handle all the lifting and disposal. The cost varies by market and item volume, so you must get a quote from your local franchise for an accurate price. This is often the fastest hands-off option.
Municipal Bulk Trash Pickup
Most cities and counties offer scheduled bulk item pickup for residents, which often includes lawn mowers. Check your local government’s waste management website or call public works to find out the schedule, any rules about preparing the item (e.g., fluid draining), and how to schedule a pickup. This is typically a free or low-cost service for residents.
Can You Put It in the Regular Garbage?
No. A lawn mower is too large and contains hazardous materials (fuel, oil, battery) for regular curbside trash collection. It must be handled through one of the specialized methods above.
Gas vs. Electric: How Mower Type Changes the Disposal Process
The type of mower you have dictates important safety and environmental steps.
Gas-Powered Mowers: Hazmat Draining is Mandatory
Before you sell, donate, scrap, or trash a gas mower, you must drain the fuel tank and the engine oil. Gasoline and motor oil are hazardous materials. This is a legal requirement under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and state regulations, not just a best practice. Never dispose of gasoline or oil in the trash, down drains, or on the ground.
To drain safely:
- Use a siphon pump to remove gasoline from the tank into an approved gas can.
- Drain the engine oil into a drain pan.
- Take both the old gas and oil to a municipal hazardous waste collection facility. Many communities hold periodic collection events or have permanent drop-off sites. You must verify the correct program name, eligibility, and drop-off locations for your specific region, as this varies.
Electric and Battery-Powered Mowers
These mowers do not contain gasoline, but they have their own considerations.
- Corded Electric Mowers: These are simpler to dispose of. They can often be accepted as scrap metal or e-waste.
- Battery-Powered Mowers: The lithium-ion battery is the key component. Lithium-ion batteries are classified as hazardous waste by the EPA and state environmental agencies and require separate recycling. Do not throw the battery in the trash. Many retailers (like Home Depot) and municipal e-waste programs accept old batteries for recycling. Remove the battery before recycling the mower body as scrap metal.
Fastest Way to Get Rid of a Lawn Mower (When Speed Is the Priority)
If your primary goal is to have the mower gone as quickly as possible, focus on these methods:
- Curbside “Free” Listing: Post on Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor as “Free – must pick up today.” A working mower will often be claimed within hours.
- Junk Removal Service: Call a service like 1-800-GOT-JUNK for same-day pickup. This is the fastest hands-off solution.
- Scrap Metal Yard: If you can transport it, most yards will take it immediately and pay you on the spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just leave my old lawn mower on the curb for garbage day?
No. A lawn mower is considered a bulk item and contains hazardous materials like gasoline and oil. It will not be collected with regular trash. You must use a scheduled bulk pickup service, a junk removal company, or take it to a scrap yard or hazardous waste facility.
Do I have to drain the gas before donating a lawn mower?
Yes. It is a legal and safety requirement to drain all gasoline and oil before transferring ownership, whether through sale, donation, or disposal. This applies to all methods.
How much is a scrap metal yard likely to pay for my old lawn mower?
Payment is based on the current market price for steel, which fluctuates. You can expect a payment based on the mower’s weight. Call your local scrap yard for their current rate per pound to get an estimate.
Where can I recycle the battery from my cordless lawn mower?
Do not throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Take them to a designated e-waste recycling center. Many home improvement stores and municipal hazardous waste programs also accept old batteries for safe recycling.
