Need to toss old batteries in Modesto? Here’s how to schedule a free pickup
The holiday season often means new gifts that need batteries — or replacing the old ones around your home.
In Modesto, improper battery disposal isn’t just bad for the environment. It’s illegal and can even cause explosions.
Under a grant with the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery, the city of Modesto is offering a free household battery collection pilot program through January 2027.
“This pilot program is an easy, convenient, and free way to have batteries picked up right from your home,” the city said on its website.
Here’s how to safely dispose of your old batteries in Modesto:
Can I throw old batteries in my garbage can in Modesto?
According to the city website, Modesto residents should not toss old batteries in their containers.
“Batteries require special disposal and cannot be placed in your standard garbage, organics or recycling containers,” the city said on its website.
What happens if I toss old batteries in the trash?
According to the California Department of Toxic Substances Control, it’s illegal to toss old batteries in the trash under the state’s Universal Waste Rule.
This rule covers items that, while less immediately dangerous than other hazardous wastes, can still harm people and the environment if thrown away improperly.
“These universal wastes are widely produced by households and many different types of businesses,” the department said on its website.
Are batteries considered hazardous waste?
California’s hazardous waste regulations identify the following eight categories of hazardous waste as “universal wastes”:
- Batteries
- Lamps
- Electronic devices
- Cathode ray tubes (CRTs)
- Cathode ray tube glass
- Mercury wastes
- Non-empty aerosol cans
- Photovoltaic (PV) modules
If thrown in the trash, batteries can short-circuit, overheat and ignite, causing major fires in waste collection vehicles or at landfills.
According to California’s Code of Regulations, violating California’s Universal Waste Rule can result in fines of up to $10,000.
How to schedule a free battery pickup
Through the city’s free battery pickup program, the following types of batteries are accepted:
- Alkaline
- Button cell
- Nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd, Ni-Cadmium or Ni-Cad)
The city will not accept:
- Rechargeable batteries
- Computer, cell phone, tool or equipment batteries
- Vehicle or industrial batteries
To schedule a free battery pickup in Modesto, start by calling the city at 209-577-5494 to make an appointment.
Collect your used batteries and make sure they are acceptable types. Tape both ends of each battery to prevent short-circuiting and place them in clear, resealable bags. Make sure to keep different battery types in separate bags.
On your appointment day, place the bags by your garage door by 7 a.m., the city said.
If you don’t have a garage, be sure to let staff know when you schedule your pickup.
“Do not place unacceptable batteries, household hazardous waste, and any other materials out during battery pick up,” the city said on its website. “Batteries will not be collected if they are not taped, stored in bags or if there are unacceptable batteries included. “
This story was originally published December 9, 2025 at 8:46 AM.
