Protect your family, home, and community with these tips
The number of batteries in our waste stream is increasing and so are the number of battery-related fires recorded across the country. Batteries come in various types and sizes to fit different products including toys, laptops, smart phones and watches, e-cigarettes/vape pens, e-bikes and scooters, and more. If damaged or improperly charged, stored, disposed of or recycled, batteries can harm you and others. Proper disposal of these batteries helps keep you and waste and recycling workers safe while benefitting the environment.
Know your batteries
Alkaline batteries
Battery Type | Uses and Description |
|---|---|
Alkaline |
|
Non-Alkaline Batteries (Requires Special Handling to Dispose – Do NOT Place in Garbage or Recycling Container)
Battery Type | Uses and Description |
|---|---|
Button-Cell or Coin |
|
Lithium (Single-Use) |
|
Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) |
|
Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd) |
|
Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) |
|
Nickel-Zinc (Ni-Zn) |
|
Small-Sealed Lead Acid (Pb) |
|
How to store
- Always follow the manufacturer’s directions on your battery.
Store all single-use batteries in original packaging. Store rechargeable batteries in a cool, dry place.
- Do not store household batteries with other metal objects including staples and loose change. A short circuit can occur if these come into contact, quickly generating heat and possibly a fire or explosion.
- Store all batteries out of sight and reach of children to prevent accidental swallowing and improper use which could lead to serious injury.
How to use
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Different devices may have different requirements.
- Never charge a device under your pillow, on your bed, or on a couch.
- Don’t overcharge devices or leave them charging overnight. Unplug them once they are fully charged.
- Don’t charge or use batteries that are swollen, leaking, dented, or show other signs of damage.
How to dispose
Battery Preparation
Prevent batteries from reacting with other batteries to keep you and county employees safe.
Step 1: Tape battery terminals with clear packing tape.
Make sure that battery type is clearly visible to county employees, who are responsible for sorting them.
Step 2: Place each battery in an individual plastic zip-close bag, except for lead-acid batteries.
For batteries that are too large for a baggie, such as battery packs, packaging materials are available at the CCC sites.
Unless otherwise noted, CCC's are open Monday - Saturday from 7:30 AM to 5 PM.
- Alderman's Ford Solid Waste Facility - 9402 County Road in Plant City
- Hillsborough Heights Solid Waste Facility - 6209 County Road in Seffner
- There is also HHW collection on the third Saturday of the month from 8 AM to 2 PM
- Northwest County Solid Waste Facility - 8001 W. Linebaugh Avenue in Tampa
- Sheldon Road HHW Collection Center- 9805 Sheldon Road in Tampa
- Only available on the first Saturday of the month from 8 AM to 2 PM
- Limited to HHW - this is not a CCC
- South County Solid Waste Facility - 13000 US Hwy 41 in Gibsonton
- There is also HHW collection on the second Saturday of the month from 8 AM to 2 PM
- Wimauma Solid Waste Facility - 16180 W. Lake Drive in Wimauma
Find Waste Facilities Near You
Alternative disposal locations
Free battery disposal is also available at retail locations as part of the Call2Recycle program.
What to bring
- State-issued photo ID with a Hillsborough County residential address
- If you have materials other than household hazardous chemicals or electronics, rechargeable and automotive batteries, or paint, a printed or digital copy of your annual Hillsborough County Property Tax Bill showing your current solid waste assessment may be needed
Contact
If you have questions or require additional assistance, the Customer Service team is available Monday through Friday between 8 AM and 5 PM.
Phone: (813) 272-5680
Email: SolidWaste@HCFL.gov