How to dispose of Batteries in California

California rules

All batteries must be recycled — it is illegal to put any battery in the trash.

General steps

1. Identify the battery type: alkaline, lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, or lead-acid.
2. Alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V): Can go in regular trash in most states, but recycling is preferred.
3. Lithium-ion batteries (laptops, phones): Never put in trash. Take to a battery recycling drop-off.
4. Lead-acid batteries (car batteries): Return to auto parts stores for free recycling.
5. Tape the terminals of lithium batteries before dropping off to prevent fires.