Can I throw away this battery?
Pick the battery and your state to get the answer.
Stricter than federal rules
California
California prohibits batteries in household trash and curbside recycling bins. Use a battery collection site or household hazardous waste program, and confirm the battery types and quantities it accepts.
District of Columbia
The District of Columbia prohibits single-use and rechargeable household batteries in the trash. Its producer-funded battery stewardship program provides collection options; check accepted battery types before visiting.
Illinois
Illinois' Portable Battery Stewardship Act requires battery producers to fund a statewide collection program so residents and businesses have free, convenient drop-off options.
Maine
Maine was an early adopter of rechargeable battery take-back requirements and restricts disposal of rechargeable and mercury-containing batteries.
Minnesota
Minnesota prohibits rechargeable batteries and products with non-removable rechargeable batteries in mixed municipal waste. Manufacturers must provide or participate in recycling collection programs.
New Jersey
New Jersey's Dry Cell Battery Management Act restricts disposal of mercuric oxide and nickel-cadmium batteries and requires them to be collected for recycling.
New York
New York's Rechargeable Battery Law requires manufacturers to run free take-back programs and retailers that sell rechargeable batteries to accept them. Putting rechargeable batteries in the trash is prohibited.
Vermont
Vermont has collection programs for covered single-use and rechargeable batteries. Lead-acid and rechargeable batteries are banned from landfill disposal; consult Vermont DEC for the applicable battery category and collection options.
Washington
Washington is implementing a producer-funded battery collection program. Portable battery collection begins July 1, 2027, and medium-format battery collection begins January 1, 2029. Check current drop-off options with the Department of Ecology.
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