How to Dispose of Old Golf Cart Batteries (Safe, Legal, and Easy)

Safely dispose of old golf cart batteries by using retailers, HHW drop-offs, or certified recyclers—protect the environment, avoid fines, and even earn credit.

Old lead-acid packs are 99% recyclable, but they must be handled correctly. Whether you’re upgrading your golf cart or replacing a tired pack, this guide explains where to take used batteries, the best disposal methods, what fees to expect, and how to prepare them for transport—step by step.

Where to Get Rid of Old Golf Cart Batteries

• Battery retailers & auto parts stores: Most accept used lead-acid batteries for recycling and may offer a core credit or small payout because of the lead value.
• Golf cart dealers and service centers: Many dealers provide take-back or trade-in recycling when you purchase installation or a new pack.
• Municipal HHW (Household Hazardous Waste) facilities: Cities and counties often run fixed sites or weekend events that accept batteries at no cost for residents.
• Certified recycling centers/scrap yards: EPA- or state-registered recyclers take batteries year-round; call ahead for intake hours, ID requirements, and payout/fee policies.
• Mobile collection events: Seasonal “hazmat roundups” are convenient if you can’t reach a permanent site.

What Is the Best Way to Get Rid of Old Batteries?

Short answer: Return them through a retailer or certified recycler that provides documentation of proper handling. Here’s a simple, safe process:

1. Identify the battery type: Most cart packs are flooded lead-acid, AGM, or lithium. Never open sealed AGM or lithium cases. Use only distilled water top-ups on flooded units if needed for transport (plates must be covered).
2. Call ahead: Confirm the site accepts your chemistry, ask about limits (quantity, size), and whether they require proof of residency.
3. Prepare for transport: Wear gloves and eye protection. Keep batteries upright, tape or cap exposed terminals, and place them in a sturdy plastic bin or cardboard tray lined with absorbent material.
4. Neutralize surface corrosion: A baking-soda/water paste on terminals and case exteriors (not inside cells) reduces spill risk from crusty build-up. Wipe clean and dry.
5. Secure the load: Prevent tipping with straps or blocks. Ventilate your vehicle and keep away from heat or open flame.
6. Drop off and get a receipt: Ask for documentation (or a core credit) and confirm the recycler’s downstream processing is compliant.

Are There Any Fees for Battery Recycling?

• Retailer & auto parts stores: Often free; many offer a core deposit refund when you return an old unit after buying a new one.
• Golf cart dealers: Frequently included with purchase/installation; standalone drop-offs may be free or carry a small handling fee.
• Municipal HHW: Typically free for residents; bring ID or a utility bill. Non-residents may be charged or redirected.
• Recycling centers/scrap yards: Lead-acid often earns a payout; lithium acceptance varies and may involve a fee due to special handling.

Safety Do’s and Don’ts

• Do keep batteries upright; don’t transport on their sides.
• Do cap/tape terminals to prevent shorts; don’t stack bare terminals together.
• Do neutralize external corrosion with baking soda; don’t pour electrolyte down drains or onto soil.
• Do isolate any cracked/leaking case in a plastic tub with absorbent; don’t attempt home repair on damaged cases.

What If the Battery Is Damaged or Leaking?

Handle it as hazardous. Place the unit in a plastic tote lined with absorbent material (kitty litter or pads), wear PPE, and transport it directly to an HHW facility or certified recycler. If the spill is significant, contact your local HHW hotline for instructions before moving it.

Lithium vs Lead-Acid: Disposal Differences

• Lead-acid: Widely recycled; the closed-loop industry reuses lead, plastic, and electrolyte. Extremely high recovery rates.
• Lithium: Requires specialized processing. Many auto parts stores and HHW sites accept lithium packs, but call first; some programs require insulation/taping of terminals and special packaging.

How to Prep a Multi-Battery Pack

1. Label each unit (e.g., “Battery 1 of 6”).
2. Disconnect series jumpers, insulate cable ends, and remove batteries one at a time.
3. Stage them on a cart or dolly; keep spacing between units to avoid accidental contact.
4. Photograph serials if you want records for maintenance logs or warranty tracking.

FAQs

Where can I get rid of old golf cart batteries?
Return them to battery retailers, golf cart dealers, municipal HHW facilities, or certified recycling centers. Many auto parts stores accept them year-round.

What’s the best way to dispose of old batteries?
Use a certified recycler or retailer take-back program, keep batteries upright with terminals insulated, and request documentation of proper recycling.

Are there fees?
Often no—many programs are free or offer core refunds/payouts for lead-acid. Lithium acceptance may vary and sometimes includes a handling fee.

Bottom Line

Choosing a reputable recycler protects people and the planet—and may put cash or credits back in your pocket. Call ahead, prepare batteries safely, and drop them at a certified site. With a little planning, you’ll recycle responsibly and keep your golf cart project moving without the mess.