The start of the new year can inspire a fresh start to declutter and organize our living spaces. You might stumble upon a collection of old batteries or outdated electronics. How you handle these has changed as of January 1, 2024, and a new rule is in place – batteries and electronics are no longer allowed in the garbage.
Both batteries and electronics require special handling and disposal for safety and contain materials that can be recycled. That’s why this change is happening now.
This disposal ban covers a variety of batteries and electronics, such as products with embedded batteries like small gadgets, toys, computers, monitors, and e-bikes. Fortunately, Seattle residents have several options to dispose of these items properly.
How to properly dispose of batteries and electronics
Battery Disposal Options:
- Free drop off: SPU North or South Transfer Stations, Household Hazardous Waste Management facilities, or partner retail locations listed on Call2Recycle.org or E-cycle WA
- If a battery is damaged or defective, drop off at a Household Hazardous Waste Management Facility (free of charge)
- At home: request a Special Item Pickup ($5 charge)
Electronics Disposal Options:
- Free drop off: SPU North Transfer Station or E-cycle WA locations
- At home: request a Special Item Pickup ($20 for Special Items box, $30 for TVs larger than 2 ft.)
Special items pickups are free for Utility Discount Program customers.
While batteries are becoming a bigger part of our everyday lives, they can be dangerous and cause fires. Rechargeable batteries or lithium-ion batteries can overheat and even used batteries can still have a charge, posing a risk when they are processed with other waste.
Batteries are now the leading cause of fires at our transfer stations, and they can also leak acid and metals when being handled in the waste stream. The hazardous chemicals in batteries need to be safely disposed to help protect our environment, our community members, and our staff.
Your help makes Seattle a leader in waste management and helping the environment. Learn more about the ban on batteries and electronics.