Broward County warns residents not to toss old batteries in regular trash
Broward County, Florida – Broward County is reminding residents and retailers that old batteries should not be tossed into regular trash or recycling bins, warning that improper disposal can create both environmental risks and serious fire hazards.
The reminder comes as the County moves forward with Ordinance No. 2026-09, which establishes new rules for the safe collection and recycling of certain batteries. The requirements, now part of Sections 14-150 through 14-153 of the Broward County Code of Ordinances, took effect May 1, 2026.
At the center of the effort is Broward County’s Battery Collection and Recycling Program, administered by the County’s Solid Waste and Recycling Services. The program creates a free, in-store way for consumers to recycle select batteries, including lithium-ion batteries, button-cell batteries, rechargeable batteries and other specialized care batteries.
County officials say the goal is simple: make battery recycling easier, safer and more accessible while keeping dangerous materials out of the solid waste and recycling streams. Residents are being encouraged to look for dedicated collection bins at participating retailers such as Best Buy, Home Depot and other stores that qualify under the ordinance.
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For businesses, the new rules carry specific responsibilities. Under Section 14-152(a)(1), qualifying retailers must create an onsite Battery Collection and Recycling Program for specialized care batteries and rechargeable battery products. The program must be available to customers at no cost, operate during normal business hours, include safe and clearly accessible collection containers, and accept applicable batteries based on the retailer’s classification as a large volume, small volume or repair service retailer.
Retailers also must make sure the collected batteries are recycled properly under state and federal rules, including Universal Waste requirements under 40 C.F.R. Part 273. In addition, Section 14-152(c) requires clear and visible signage so customers know where to bring batteries and understand why safe disposal matters.
Broward County said the ordinance responds to growing concerns over fires caused by lithium-ion and rechargeable batteries that are placed in trash or standard recycling bins. The measure also supports safer end-of-life handling of hazardous battery components and strengthens the County’s broader environmental protection efforts.
Retailers that have not yet done so are being told to establish their collection programs, install the required bins and signage, and align their internal handling and storage procedures with the ordinance.
The County said its Solid Waste and Recycling Services Division is available to help businesses with setup, signage and compliance questions. Retailers and residents seeking more information can contact the County at [email protected] or visit Broward County’s recycling information page.
