From wireless earbuds and smart watches to portable chargers, e-bikes, and cordless gadgets, batteries power nearly every part of modern life. But when those batteries reach the end of their life, one thing is certain—batteries do not belong in your trash, recycling cart, or landfill.
Today’s batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries, store significant energy in a compact space. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), when batteries are thrown into the trash or recycling bin, they can become damaged, crushed, or punctured during collection and processing—creating sparks that can ignite fires in garbage trucks, recycling facilities, and waste operations. These fires put sanitation workers, recycling employees, and landfill staff at risk.
That’s why the EPA recommends taking used batteries to a designated recycling location or household hazardous waste facility. To help prevent sparks during transport, residents should tape battery terminals with non-conductive tape before drop-off.
Battery Recycling Made Easy in Orange County
OC Waste & Recycling offers Orange County residents a free and convenient way to recycle household batteries through its Household Hazardous Waste Collection Centers (HHWCCs).
At an OCWR HHWCC, residents can safely dispose of:
- Household batteries
- Rechargeable batteries
- Cell phones and other electronics
- Paint, cleaners, and household chemicals
- Automotive fluids
- E-waste, including computers, tablets, and televisions
Simply place materials in your trunk or truck bed, and trained staff will safely collect them through OCWR’s drive-through service.
Residents are also encouraged to ask for a FREE battery recycling bucket for home use, available while supplies last.
OCWR Household Hazardous Waste Collection Centers
Open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (excluding holidays and rainy days)
- Anaheim — 1071 N. Blue Gum Street, 92806
- Huntington Beach — 17121 Nichols Lane, Gate 6, 92647
- Irvine — 6411 Oak Canyon, 92618
- San Juan Capistrano — 32250 Avenida La Pata, 92675
Many local retailers, including The Home Depot, Best Buy, and Lowe’s, also offer battery recycling programs.
Small Battery. Big Risk.
A single improperly disposed battery can spark a fire. By keeping batteries out of the trash and out of the landfill, you help prevent fires, and support a safer, cleaner Orange County.
For more information, visit OCLandfills.com/hazardous-waste or follow @OCWaste on social media.