Washington State Battery Recycling Guide
2026–2030 Law Update
Washington State is implementing one of the most comprehensive battery recycling systems in the United States.
Beginning January 1, 2027, portable batteries — including common AA alkaline batteries — will be covered under a statewide stewardship program funded by battery manufacturers.
If you live, sell, or manufacture batteries in Washington, this guide explains:
- How to properly dispose of batteries
- What is changing under the 2027 law
- Retailer and manufacturer requirements
- Where to recycle batteries today
- What to expect through 2030
Overview: Are Batteries Allowed in the Trash in Washington?
In many Washington jurisdictions, batteries are banned from garbage collection due to fire risks and environmental concerns.
Even where not explicitly banned, recycling is strongly recommended statewide.
Why?
Batteries can:
- Spark fires in garbage trucks
- Ignite at transfer stations
- Damage recycling facilities
- Leak chemicals into landfills
The safest and recommended option is always recycling.
What Types of Batteries Are Covered?
Washington’s law applies to “portable batteries,” including:
- AA, AAA, C, D alkaline batteries
- 9-volt batteries
- Rechargeable batteries (NiMH, NiCd)
- Lithium-ion batteries
- Button and coin cell batteries
Beginning January 1, 2029, medium-format batteries (such as e-bike batteries) will also be covered.
Washington Battery Stewardship Law (RCW 70A.555)
Washington passed a Battery Stewardship Program requiring producers to fund and manage battery recycling statewide.
This is an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) law.
What Is Extended Producer Responsibility?
Under EPR:
• Manufacturers must finance collection and recycling
• Retailers may only sell compliant batteries
• Consumers can recycle batteries at no cost
This shifts disposal responsibility from taxpayers to producers.
2026–2030 Implementation Timeline
| Date | Requirement |
|---|---|
| January 1, 2027 | Portable batteries included in stewardship program |
| July 1, 2027 | Retailers restricted to compliant producers |
| January 1, 2029 | Medium-format batteries included |
| January 1, 2030 | Mandatory battery labeling requirements |
Where to Recycle Batteries in Washington (2026)
Until the full stewardship system is active, residents can recycle batteries at:
Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Facilities
Most counties operate permanent drop-off locations.
Retail Drop-Off Locations
Some hardware and electronics stores participate in battery recycling programs.
Local Collection Events
Municipal hazardous waste events often accept batteries.
Always verify with your local county waste department for current guidance.
How to Store Used Batteries Safely Before Recycling
To reduce fire risk:
- Store batteries in a dry, non-metal container
- Keep away from flammable materials
- Tape terminals (especially lithium or 9-volt batteries)
- Do not mix leaking batteries with intact ones
Battery fires in waste facilities are increasing nationwide — safe storage matters.
What Retailers Need to Know (2027 and Beyond)
Beginning July 1, 2027:
Retailers in Washington may only sell batteries from producers participating in an approved stewardship plan.
Retailers should:
- Verify supplier compliance
- Monitor Ecology-approved producer lists
- Ensure products meet labeling requirements
Failure to comply could restrict battery sales within the state.
What Manufacturers Must Do
Battery producers must:
- Register with Washington State Department of Ecology
- Join or create an approved stewardship organization
- Fund and manage statewide collection
- Submit reporting and performance data
This creates a standardized statewide recycling system.
Consumer Disposal Pages
For detailed guidance by battery type:
- How to Dispose of AA Alkaline Batteries in Washington
- Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling Guide
- Where to Recycle Batteries in King County
- Can You Throw Away Batteries in Washington?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I throw AA batteries in the trash in Washington?
In many areas, no. Many jurisdictions prohibit batteries in garbage due to fire risks. Recycling is strongly recommended statewide.
When does Washington’s battery recycling law take effect?
Portable batteries are covered beginning January 1, 2027.
Will battery recycling be free?
Yes. Under the stewardship program, producers fund collection, making drop-off free to consumers.
Does the law include lithium-ion batteries?
Yes. Portable lithium-ion batteries are covered beginning in 2027.
Conclusion
Washington State is transitioning to a producer-funded battery recycling system that will:
- Expand drop-off access
- Improve safety
- Reduce landfill waste
- Standardize recycling statewide
If you live in Washington, the safest action today is to recycle used batteries at approved locations and watch for expanded statewide programs beginning in 2027.