A device for separating overspray from the cabin exhaust air of painting systems includes at least one separating surface, on which the exhaust air is guided and which is connected to a pole of a high voltage source. An electrode device arranged in the air stream is associated with the separating surface and connected to the other pole of the high voltage source. The separated paint overspray is transported away from the separating surface with a separating fluid, which flows over the separating surface-from top to bottom. A discharge device having a channel open at the top is present, from which the separating fluid exits along the longitudinal extension of the discharge device when the level of the separating fluid in the channel exceeds an exit level, and reaches the separating surface such that the separating fluid flows downward on the separating surface as a substantially adhering layer.