Battery Recycling Drop-Off

Why Battery Recycling Matters

Used batteries, especially lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, can pose a fire risk when thrown in the garbage or blue box. These batteries are found in common devices like:

• Laptops and tablets

• Power tools

• E-bikes, scooters, and hoverboards

• Toys and remote controls

Recycling batteries prevents battery-related fires, keeps hazardous materials out of landfills, recovers valuable materials like metals, which can be reused, and supports a strong circular economy.

How to Prepare Batteries for Safe Recycling

Before dropping off your used household batteries, it’s important to follow a few simple steps to make sure they’re stored and transported safely. Different battery types require different packaging.

Batteries That Require Terminal Protection

Some batteries must have their terminals (the contact points) covered to prevent sparks or short circuits.

These battery types require individual terminal protection:

• Lithium batteries – commonly found in power tools, cameras, laptops, and e-mobility devices

• Coin (button) cell batteries – found in watches, key fobs, hearing aids

• Small sealed lead acid (SSLA) batteries – used in backup power devices, emergency lighting, and mobility equipment

• 9V or higher alkaline batteries – used in smoke alarms, toys, and electronics

How to protect terminals:

Choose one of the following methods:

• Cover the battery terminals with non-conductive tape (e.g., electrical, masking, or duct tape)

• Place each battery in its own clear plastic bag

Do not use metallic containers, and never mix loose batteries together.

Alkaline Batteries Under 9V (AA, AAA, C, D)

These do not require terminal protection, but should still be safely packaged.

How to prepare:

• Collect multiple batteries in a clear plastic bag (no individual wrapping or taping needed)

• Do not include damaged or leaking batteries

This helps keep batteries contained and separated from other materials in the collection bins.

Safety Reminders

• Keep batteries in a cool, dry place before recycling

• Never throw batteries in the garbage or blue box

• Use non-metal containers when storing batteries at home

• Handle damaged batteries with care and contact your local depot for disposal instructions

For more information, visit RecycleYourBatteries.ca/battery-safety

Where to Drop Off Batteries

Residents can bring used household batteries to any of the following drop-off bins:

Township Office
177964 Grey Road 18, Owen Sound
🕒 Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Shallow Lake & District Community Centre & Arena
550 Princess Street, Shallow Lake

Kemble Arena & Community Centre
401297 Kemble Rock Road, Kemble

Derby Arena & Community Centre
137534 Concession 7, Kilsyth

Learn More

• Battery safety and resources: RecycleYourBatteries.ca/battery-safety