Department of Solid Waste Management

Help Prevent Fires by Disposing of Batteries Properly

That little battery can start a big fire. Keep batteries out of your trash and recycling bins, and bring them to our Special Waste dopr off at the Northern and Southern Recycling Centers are 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

- Northern Recycling center located at 601 New Hampshire Avenue, Lakewood, NJ Drop off at building 68.
- Southern Recycling Center located at 379 Haywood Road, Manahawkin, NJ 08050 Drop off at building 105.
- Private locations for rechargeable household batteries Drop off locator

Batteries power many of the items we use every day, but when disposed of improperly, they can pose a serious fire risk. Batteries, especially lithium-ion and rechargeable batteries, can spark fires when crushed, damaged, or compacted in garbage trucks and waste processing facilities.

Rechargeable Batteries and Lithium-Ion Batteries

Common examples include batteries from laptops, cellphones, power tools, cameras, tablets, and other rechargeable devices.

Protect battery terminals from contact with other metal objects by using tape or individual bags, when appropriate.

Single-Use Alkaline Batteries

Standard alkaline batteries may generally be disposed of in household trash in New Jersey.

If you are unsure what type of battery you have, bring it to an approved battery drop-off location rather than placing it in your recycling bin.

Button Batteries and Other Specialty Batteries

Button, coin, and other specialty batteries should be handled according to the collection site's instructions.
Keep them away from children and pets.

Before You Drop Off Batteries

1. Do not crush, puncture, dismantle, or intentionally damage batteries.

2. Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from heat and flammable materials.

3. Prevent battery terminals from touching one another or metal objects.

4. Keep damaged or swollen batteries separate and seek guidance before transporting them.

Why Proper Battery Disposal Matters

When batteries enter garbage trucks or processing equipment, they can be crushed or damaged, potentially causing fires that endanger workers, damage equipment, and disrupt waste services.

Proper disposal helps protect our community, waste workers, economy and the environment.

Access here our list of Accepted Special Waste - Recycling Drop Off Program