Seattle Bans Throwing Batteries in Garbage and Recycling Bins

The city of Seattle has officially banned batteries from garbage and recycling bins as of January 1.

Batteries, including slam button cell batteries, alkaline batteries, and the ever-problematic lithium-ion batteries, will need to be taken to Seattle Public Utilities sites. Residents can schedule a $5 pickup with the city or use a private battery drop-off service such as Call2Recycle.

The new law stems from how hazardous batteries can be when entering improper waste streams. Batteries contain hazardous chemicals and require special handling and disposal.

"In the last two years, the Seattle Fire Department has responded to 79 fires involving lithium-ion batteries, often involving e-scooters, e-bikes, and portable electronics," said Seattle Fire Chief Harold Scoggins.

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