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, QC
- St. Catharines, ON
- Surrey, BC
- Toronto, ON
- Vancouver, BC
- Vaughan, ON
- Waterloo, ON
- 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.