Orange County Hazardous Waste Collection May-June 2024

Orange County will hold two Saturday hazardous waste collection events this spring as officials warn residents that improperly discarded batteries pose fire risks to workers and facilities.

County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus and Deputy Commissioner Robert J. Gray of the Department of Public Works issued the alert April 28. Residents who drop batteries at county transfer stations outside designated collection days face fines.

Rechargeable batteries—including lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, and small sealed lead-acid types—cannot enter household trash under New York State law. Residents must bring them to county hazardous waste events or participating retailers listed at batterynetwork.org.

Single-use alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, and 9-volt) may go in regular trash, though retailers like Staples offer free recycling. Officials recommend taping battery terminals before disposal.

The first collection event runs 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 9 at Orange County Transfer Station #1 Maintenance Garage in New Hampton. The second takes place June 13 at Port Jervis High School Buildings and Grounds Parking Lot in Port Jervis.

Residents must bring photo ID and proof of residency. Businesses cannot attend Saturday events but may register for separate Friday CESQG events.

More information is available at orangecountygov.com/efs or by calling Rebecca Sheehan at 845-291-2700.