IT IS ILLEGAL TO THROW AWAY COMMON HOUSEHOLD BATTERIES. Under the California Universal Waste Rule, household batteries can no longer be disposed of in the trash because they contain toxic metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium, and nickel. Batteries that end up in landfills may have a negative affect on our environment and food chain, potentially causing serious health risks to humans and animals.

In an effort to educate and encourage County residents to properly dispose of their household batteries, Public Works has partnered with the County of Los Angeles Public Library, to utilize library locations for the proper collection of household batteries. This pilot program offers battery collection containers at designated llibraries throughout the County. The program was designed to offer residents a free and convenient outlet to dispose of common household batteries such as:

• Dry Cell Batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9-Volt)

• Rechargeable Batteries (used in cell phones and power tools)

• Button Cell Batteries (used in watches, cameras, and hearing aids)

Public Works encourages residents to help keep their communities clean and safe by bringing ALL used or unwanted household batteries to a designated County Public Library near you, mobile Household Hazardous Waste Event, the Antelope Valley Environmental Collection Center, to a permanent center operated by the City of Los Angeles, to a local Home Depot near you, or to other designated retail stores .

For proper disposal of Universal Waste, click here. You can also check with your City for alternative disposal outlets.

PLEASE NOTE: All batteries dropped off at the County's designated collection sites should be taped on the positive (+) end.