How to dispose of Smoke Alarm Batteries in California

California rules

All batteries are banned from trash. Recycle at any Call2Recycle drop-off or household hazardous waste facility.

General steps

1. Remove the battery from the smoke detector carefully.
2. 9V batteries: Tape both terminals with electrical tape to prevent short circuits.
3. Lithium batteries (10-year sealed units): Take to a battery recycling drop-off or hazardous waste.
4. Drop off at Home Depot, Lowe's, Best Buy, or any Call2Recycle location.