TrashRules

A field guide for
the things we leave behind.

Find another item

Choose your collection city. We’ll help with the details.

Batteries & electronicsNew York City, New York

Household batteries: identify the chemistry

AA and AAA describe size; check the chemistry.

Batteries & electronics
More information needed

Check the conditions for your item

Confirm that your property is inside the city service area. A ZIP code alone does not establish service.

Your item, your situation

Find your next step

Your answers stay in this browser
Where it's being collected

A ZIP code alone does not confirm service. Check with NYC Department of Sanitation

Specific limits still apply. Large quantities need separate confirmation.

Keep the details close

The local rules

New York City

Follow the conditions that match your item and collection service. Open any rule for the full instructions and sources.

TrashReviewed ruleApplies when: What condition is it in?: Intact, cool, no swelling, leaks, odor, or unusual sounds · What chemistry does its label identify?: Non-rechargeable alkaline

Label-confirmed, intact non-rechargeable alkaline batteries can use trash.

For households · NYC DSNY household collection

Before disposal

Reviewed September 22, 2026

NYC Department of Sanitation: Batteries
Special drop-offReviewed ruleApplies when: What condition is it in?: Intact, cool, no swelling, leaks, odor, or unusual sounds · What chemistry does its label identify?: Single-use lithium or Rechargeable or Button or coin cell

Use a DSNY Special Waste site for identified, intact non-alkaline household batteries.

For households · NYC DSNY household collection

Before disposal

Reviewed September 22, 2026

NYC Department of Sanitation: Batteries · NYC Department of Sanitation: Special Waste Drop-Off
Verify with the agencyReviewed ruleApplies when: What condition is it in?: Intact, cool, no swelling, leaks, odor, or unusual sounds · What chemistry does its label identify?: Cannot identify it

Chemistry is not established. Call 311 before choosing a disposal route.

For households · NYC DSNY household collection

Reviewed September 22, 2026

NYC Department of Sanitation: Batteries · City of New York: Contact NYC Government
Verify with the agencyReviewed ruleApplies when: What condition is it in?: Physical damage, without those warning signs

A handling route for this damage is not verified. Call 311 for DSNY/FDNY guidance before arranging disposal.

For households · NYC DSNY household collection

Reviewed September 22, 2026

Fire Department of the City of New York: Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
Verify with the agencyReviewed ruleApplies when: What condition is it in?: Overheating, swelling, leaking, odd odor/noises, smoke, or fire

Stop using the battery and call 911 for these warning signs. For smoke or fire, leave the building immediately and call from outside.

For households · NYC DSNY household collection

Reviewed September 22, 2026

NYC311: Lithium-Ion Battery Safety and Complaint · Fire Department of the City of New York: Lithium-Ion Safety

Places & programs to check

Confirm eligibility and acceptance for your item's condition before making a trip. Listing a location does not confirm that it can take every item.

  • Manhattan Special Waste Drop-Off

    74 Pike Slip, between Cherry Street and South Street, under the Manhattan Bridge, Manhattan, NY

    NYC residents with NYC household waste; valid ID and proof of residency. Commercial waste and commercial vehicles excluded.