Household, rechargeable, lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries all need special handling — they can start fires in trucks and landfills and contain recoverable metals.

In California we list 7 batteries drop-off locations across 7 cities, with the most in Dinuba, El Cerrito, Modesto, Northridge and San Jacinto. Each links to its full page with address, phone and hours.

Batteries Drop-Off Locations in California

Eastern Regional Landfill

📍Truckee · 900 Cabin Creek Rd, Truckee, CA 96161
📞+1 530-583-7800
🕐Today: 7 AM–4 PM
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California Graybears

📍Watsonville · 1231 Buena Vista Dr, Watsonville, CA 95076
📞+1 831-454-5153
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United Recycling

📍Modesto · 1503 Lone Palm Ave Suite A, Modesto, CA 95351
📞+1 209-707-5063
🕐Today: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM
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California Recycles Inc.

📍Northridge · 18351 Eddy St # B, Northridge, CA 91325
📞+1 818-886-0800
🕐Today: 9 AM–4 PM
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San Jacinto Recycling Center

📍San Jacinto · 658 W Esplanade Ave, San Jacinto, CA 92583
📞+1 951-654-1399
🕐Today: 9 AM–5 PM
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El Cerrito Recycling Center

📍El Cerrito · 7501 Schmidt Ln, El Cerrito, CA 94530
📞+1 510-215-4350
🕐Today: 8:30 AM–4 PM
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Dinuba Recycling Center

📍Dinuba · 267 S Uruapan Way, Dinuba, CA 93618
📞+1 559-596-1082
🕐Today: 8 AM–5 PM
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Recycling Batteries in California: What to Know

🔋 Single-use (alkaline)
Common AA/AAA/9V. Some areas accept in regular trash, but recycling is preferred.
⚡ Rechargeable & lithium-ion
Phone, laptop and power-tool batteries. Tape the terminals and never bin them loose.
🚗 Lead-acid (car)
Vehicle batteries are widely bought back by auto and scrap yards for their lead.

How to Prepare Batteries

  • Tape the terminals of lithium and 9V batteries to prevent sparks.
  • Never put lithium-ion batteries in curbside recycling — they cause fires.
  • Bag batteries separately and keep them out of the rain.
  • Bring lead-acid car batteries to an auto parts store or scrap yard — many pay a core fee.

Batteries Recycling FAQ — California

Which California cities have the most batteries drop-off locations?

The most batteries drop-offs are in Dinuba (1), El Cerrito (1), Modesto (1), Northridge (1) and San Jacinto (1). In total we list 7 locations across 7 California cities — all listed above with addresses and hours.

Where can I recycle batteries in California?

Start with the facilities listed on this page and the full California directory. Many hardware stores and electronics retailers also host battery drop-off boxes. Always call ahead to confirm the item is accepted and whether a fee applies.

Is there a fee to drop off batteries?

Some sites accept it free; others charge a per-item or per-pound fee because of processing or disposal costs. Fees change, so confirm with the facility before your visit.

Can I put batteries in my curbside bin?

Usually no — batteries typically needs a dedicated drop-off rather than the curbside recycling cart. Check your city or county program for its specific rules.

See all battery recycling locations by city, the full California recycling directory, or batteries recycling in Texas, Georgia, Indiana, New Jersey, Minnesota.