How Do You Dispose of a Helium Tank?

Fairfax County, Virginia, says pressurized gas containers must never be placed in household trash or recycling, because compressed gas cylinders crushed during collection or disposal can create sparks or even explosions. It says residents must bring pressurized gas canisters to designated disposal facilities, and that its I-66 Transfer Station and I-95 Landfill Complex can accept helium tanks under 20 pounds. Montgomery County, Maryland, has likewise said cylinders containing compressed gas, such as propane, helium, oxygen or acetylene, should be kept out of the trash.

The Maryland Department of the Environment says to attempt disposal of a helium balloon tank only when it is empty, by taking it to a well-ventilated area, fully opening the valve handle and pressing and holding the tilt-nozzle until the tank is empty, which is when no sound is heard and no pressure is felt from the nozzle.