Abstract: In a wet type color electrophotographic copying machine, a wet type of developing apparatus and a surplus developer removing device are provided under a photosensitive material carrying device. The developing apparatus comprises a plurality of color developing devices and lifting elements for locating each developing device at the levels of three stages, i.e., a developing position, a blade contacting position and a lowered position. The surplus developer removing device comprises a developer squeezing roller unit, a developer recovery blade both of which are provided at least each color developing device, and an air knife device. The blade is operated to be in contact with a non-image area of the surface, interlockingly with a lowering movement of the developing device from the developing position to the blade contacting position, in order to recover completely the remaining developer through the blade.