How to Recycle Batteries in Canada
Recycling batteries in Canada depends on where you live and the type of material. This guide explains what is accepted, how to prepare it, and where to drop it off.
Can batteries be recycled?
Yes, batteries is recyclable in most Canadian municipalities through curbside programmes or drop-off depots.
Household batteries are accepted through many retailers and municipal depots. Vehicle batteries go to auto shops or hazardous waste depots.
Preparation tips
Tape terminals with non-conductive tape for lithium and button batteries.
Why recycling batteries matters
Diverting batteries from landfills reduces environmental impact, conserves raw materials, and supports Canada's circular economy. Many provinces have extended producer responsibility programmes that make recycling convenient and often free.
Cities with Batteries drop-off
Below are Canadian cities with locations that accept batteries. Click a city to see addresses, hours and materials accepted.
Abbotsford
BC
Area A (Pend Oreille/Bear Creek)
BC
Belleville
ON
Brampton
ON
Burnaby
BC
Calgary
AB
Chilliwack
BC
Coquitlam
BC
Cumberland
BC
Darnley
PE
Edmonton
AB
Esquimalt
BC
Gabriola
BC
Gatineau
QC
Guelph
ON
Kelowna
BC
Kingston
ON
Kitchener
ON
Lake Charlotte
NS
Lions Bay
BC
Markham
ON
Mont-Tremblant
QC
Montréal
QC
Neuville
QC
New Westminster
BC
Pemberton
BC
Prince George
BC
Quebec
QC
Québec
QC
Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier
QC
Saskatoon
SK
Sherbrooke
NS
St. Catharines
ON
Surrey
BC
Toronto
ON
Vancouver
BC
Vaughan
ON
Waterloo
QC
Winnipeg
MB
Frequently asked questions
Can I put batteries in my curbside recycling bin?
It depends on your municipality and the type of batteries. Use our city and material pages to find accepted curbside items and nearby drop-off locations.
Do I need to pay to recycle batteries?
Many recycling programmes in Canada accept batteries for free, especially when covered by extended producer responsibility programmes. Some landfills or private facilities may charge for certain items.
How do I prepare batteries for recycling?
Common preparation steps include rinsing, flattening, removing food residue, and separating different material types. Check the preparation tips above for specific guidance.