California fee on battery disposal goes into effect

An analysis by the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery estimates approximately 7,300 tons of batteries go to landfills each year. 

Published: January 6, 2026 8:22pm

This year, Californians will have to pay a disposal fee on consumer electronics that have non-removeable batteries. 

The 1.5% surcharge is capped at $15 and will go to expanding recycling programs in the state, according to Cal Matters

The fee also applies to products that contain non-rechargeable batteries. An analysis by the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery estimates approximately 7,300 tons of batteries go to landfills each year. 

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