Batteries

The best way to recycle lead-acid batteries is to recycle them with retailers at the time you purchase a new one. Per the Lead-acid Battery Recycling Law retailers and distributors who sell lead-acid batteries are required to accept these used batteries from customers. If you do not return a used battery when buying a replacement, you will be charged a $5 “return incentive payment.” The retailer who sold you the battery will refund the $5 payment if you return a used battery within 30 days of the purchase date of the new battery. Please note that per NYS DEC, illegally disposing of a lead-acid battery can result in a civil penalty of $50 for each violation.

Alternatively, UCRRA accepts lead-acid automotive batteries during normal business hours. Our minimum load fee and a Lead-Acid Battery charge will apply. Please note ALL open vehicles (truck beds or trailer hitches) must have their load covered by a secured tarp. No exceptions or you will be subjected to a fee. Click here for UCRRA’s Fee Schedule.  

Scrap metal recycling facilities, Town Transfer Stations, AutoZone, Advanced Auto parts, and other auto part stores may accept car batteries.

Car batteries are also accepted at UCRRA’s Household Hazardous Waste events. UCRRA hosts collection events each year open to Ulster County residents ONLY, and an appointment is required.

Businesses with hazardous waste should refer to our list of Hazardous Waste Removal Companies.

Contact: UCRRA at (845) 336-0600, visit UCRRA’s HHW page, your local scrap metal recycling facility:  West Kingston Recycling in Kingston at (845)331-3312; Canos in Saugerties at (845) 331-7600; or A. Messina and Sons in Gardiner at (845)883-6543, a Town Transfer Station or auto part store.