In recognition of National Battery Day on Wednesday, Feb. 18, the Public Works Department is reminding residents of new Illinois requirements for battery recycling and encouraging safe, responsible disposal of used batteries.
The Illinois Portable and Medium-Format Battery Stewardship Act took effect on Jan. 1, 2026. The law requires battery producers to participate in an approved recycling program and prohibits household and medium-format batteries from being placed in the trash or curbside recycling bins.
Improper battery disposal poses serious safety and environmental risks. Batteries can ignite fires in garbage trucks or recycling facilities and may leak hazardous chemicals into the environment.
Battery Recycling Options in Peoria
Residents can recycle batteries through the Battery Network, a state-approved stewardship program that offers a network of local drop-off sites. Locations accept batteries weighing up to 25 pounds or 2,000 watt-hours, including:
• Single-use batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V, coin/button)
• Rechargeable batteries (lithium-ion, Ni-MH, Ni-Cd, sealed lead acid)
• Medium-format batteries from e-bikes, lawn equipment, and e-scooters
• Damaged or defective batteries (authorized sites only)
Residents are encouraged to contact drop-off locations in advance to confirm hours and accepted quantities.
To reduce fire risk, batteries should be individually bagged or have their terminals taped before drop-off. This does not apply to alkaline and other non-lithium primary batteries under 12 volts.
Residents can find nearby drop-off locations and a battery identification and safety guide at the Battery Network.