Can you legally toss out your batteries in New York State? Does it matter what type of batteries you're throwing out? Let's take a look at what New York State law says. For legal purposes, New York classifies batteries as rechargeable or single-use,

Rechargeable batteries are commonly found in cordless power tools, cordless phones, cordless vacuums, laptops, cellphones, cameras, two-way radios, biomedical equipment, etc.

Single-use batteries are not reusable when they lose their charge. They are commonly found in musical greeting cards, remote controls, car keyless entry remotes, watches, hearing aids, flashlights, smoke detectors, toys. etc.

Photo by Aoumeur Abderrahmen on Unsplash
Photo by Aoumeur Abderrahmen on Unsplash
loading...

Can You Simply Throw Batteries Away?

It depends on the type of battery. If it's a single-use battery that is not alkaline, you cannot just throw it away - it's illegal. Alkaline batteries, on the other hand, can be put in the trash, although New York recommends recycling them via Call2Recylce.

It is illegal in New York State to throw away rechargeable NiMH AAA, AA, and D batteries,

It is against the law to knowingly dispose of NiMH batteries in the garbage in New York State. Instead, NiMH batteries must be recycle.

Photo by John Cameron on Unsplash
Photo by John Cameron on Unsplash
loading...

In New York State, any retailer that sells rechargeable batteries or products that require rechargeable batteries must offer recycling,

Any retailer that sells covered rechargeable batteries or rechargeable battery containing products must accept used rechargeable batteries from NYS consumers for recycling. Make sure to check for and remove rechargeable batteries contained in products prior to the disposal of such products. Examples of products that often contain rechargeable batteries include: personal care devices, toys, digital cameras, cell phones, laptops, tablets, eReaders, wireless speakers and other devices, portable power tools and more.

You can find Call2Recycle locations near you here.

Get our free mobile app

Claim Your Share Of Lost Money In New York State

8 Things We Really, Really Hate About Adulting

More From The New 96.1 WTSS