Warning:
Rechargeable batteries can cause fires or explosions when they are not managed properly. They never belong in your trash or recycling bins, where they could harm waste and recycling workers and damage equipment. Properly charging batteries at home helps prevent battery damage and fires. Visit the NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management’s website for charging safety tips.
Select Your Battery Type to Learn How to Manage It:
Rechargeable batteries can cause fires if they are not managed properly. They can be found in power tools, cell phones, laptops, power banks, toys, cordless phones, digital cameras, two-way radios, security systems, ride-on toys, e-mobility scooters or e-bikes, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) backups, etc. There are many different types of rechargeable batteries that come in various shapes and sizes. According to New York State’s Rechargeable Battery Law, rechargeable batteries cannot go in your trash or recycling bins. Select the battery size you have to learn how to manage it properly and prevent a battery-related fire.
Small-Format
Small-format, rechargeable batteries weigh less than 11 pounds. They can be dropped off at various locations.
Mid-Format
Mid-format, rechargeable batteries weigh between 11 and 25 pounds. They can be found in outdoor power equipment, e-mobility devices and portable power stations.
Large-Format
Large-format, rechargeable batteries weigh over 25 pounds. They include electric, hybrid and commercial vehicle batteries; other motive power batteries; and batteries used in energy storage and industrial settings, such as backup power, medical equipment, grid, off-grid, micro-grid and data centers.
Looking for drop-off locations? It depends on your battery type. There is not a single drop-off location for all rechargeable battery types due to the growing complexity of batteries being sold. We’ve created this step-by-step guide to help you find an answer. Read the battery label, click a choice above, follow the steps on each page to identify your battery type, then read all of the guidance to review drop-off options for your battery.
Not sure what kind of battery you have?
Check out the information below!
What do Rechargeable batteries typically look like?
Rechargeable batteries can look identical to many single-use batteries, but they must be managed in different ways. Don’t rely on appearance alone. Read the battery to determine which type you have. Rechargeable batteries may look like:
- Individual cylinders (similar to single-use AA, AAA, C or D batteries)
- Packs of cylindrical batteries wrapped together (often found in cordless phones)
- Bricks (often found in power tools)
- Pouches (often found in cell phones and laptops)
Labels you might find
The shape of a battery does not indicate what it is made of or how it functions. Reading the label is the best way to determine what type of battery you have.
Labels on rechargeable batteries may include lithium-ion (Li-ion), nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH), nickel cadmium (Ni-Cd) or small sealed lead-acid (SSLA/Pb).
Still not sure? Contact OCRRA. If possible, e-mail us a photo for help.
Rechargeable batteries can be found in:
Are you managing batteries on behalf of a business?
The information above is primarily for residents of Onondaga County who are managing household batteries. Click “learn more” below to explore battery disposal options and resources for businesses.
Still not sure what type of battery you have?
Return to the main battery management page to explore other battery types and management information.
Need some help?
Contact us!
