Curbside GuideHow to get rid of batteries in Louisville, KY
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Quick answer
Alkaline batteries can go in the trash or to the Haz Bin. Tape and take lithium, rechargeable, button and coin batteries to the Haz Bin (free for Jefferson County residents) or a store.
- Household Alkaline ('General Use' or 'Car…
- Lithium-ion Lithium and rechargeable batter…
- Car battery Not covered on the City's batte…
- Drop-off Haz Bin (free for Jefferson Cou…
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- Household (AA, AAA, 9V)
- Alkaline ('General Use' or 'Carbon Zinc') batteries can go in the trash, or to the Haz Bin for recycling. Never put batteries in your recycling bin.
- Lithium-ion & rechargeable
- Lithium and rechargeable batteries need special handling: tape the + end (both sides of button/coin cells), store in a non-airtight container, and drop off at the Haz Bin. If a battery leaks or swells, wear gloves, tape it, and keep it in a metal, glass or ceramic container away from heat. Can't remove the battery? Bring the whole device.
- Car (lead-acid)
- Not covered on the City's battery page.
- Fire safety / packing
- Always tape batteries before drop-off.
- Drop-off
- Haz Bin (free for Jefferson County residents). The City also names Batteries Plus Bulbs (may charge a fee) and Lowe's or Home Depot (power tool batteries).
- Tip
- Crushed or damaged batteries can start fires in recycling trucks and centers.
Official source: louisvilleky.gov
Helpful supplies
- Electrical terminal tape — Covering battery terminals helps keep loose batteries from sparking while you store or carry them to a drop-off.
- Battery storage case — Keeps used batteries sorted and separated until your next drop-off trip.
- Fireproof lithium battery bag — Holds lithium-ion and power-tool batteries safely while you wait for a drop-off day.
- Car battery carrier strap — Makes a heavy lead-acid battery easier to carry and keeps it upright.
- Acid-resistant gloves — Protects your hands when handling a car battery.
General tips from official sources
- To prevent fires from lithium-ion batteries, tape battery terminals and/or place batteries in separate plastic bags, and never put them in household garbage or recycling bins. (www.epa.gov)
- Batteries can have enough energy to injure or start fires even when used and when they appear to be discharged. (www.epa.gov)
- Lead-acid (car) batteries may contain up to 18 pounds of lead and about a gallon of corrosive sulfuric acid. Return them to a battery retailer or a household hazardous waste collection program. (www.epa.gov)
- Removable rechargeable batteries can go to specialized battery recyclers, participating retailers that offer battery take-back, or local household hazardous waste programs. (www.epa.gov)
FAQ
How do I get rid of batteries in Louisville?
Alkaline batteries can go in the trash or to the Haz Bin. Tape and take lithium, rechargeable, button and coin batteries to the Haz Bin (free for Jefferson County residents) or a store.
Can I throw AA, AAA or 9-volt batteries in the trash in Louisville?
Alkaline ('General Use' or 'Carbon Zinc') batteries can go in the trash, or to the Haz Bin for recycling. Never put batteries in your recycling bin.
What do I do with lithium-ion and rechargeable batteries in Louisville?
Lithium and rechargeable batteries need special handling: tape the + end (both sides of button/coin cells), store in a non-airtight container, and drop off at the Haz Bin. If a battery leaks or swells, wear gloves, tape it, and keep it in a metal, glass or ceramic container away from heat. Can't remove the battery? Bring the whole device.
How do I get rid of a car battery in Louisville?
Not covered on the City's battery page.
How should I pack batteries for disposal?
Always tape batteries before drop-off.
Where can I drop off batteries in Louisville?
Haz Bin (free for Jefferson County residents). The City also names Batteries Plus Bulbs (may charge a fee) and Lowe's or Home Depot (power tool batteries).