Madison Reporter

City of Madison residents are able to recycle electronics and household batteries for free at the Streets Division drop-off sites. Items accepted include televisions, computers, printers, cell phones, and other electronic devices. This service is available only to City of Madison residents and taxpayers, who must provide proof of residency such as a driver’s license or utility bill.

The city reminds residents not to place electronics in their home recycling or trash carts, as these items are banned from landfills in Wisconsin. Improper disposal can lead to fires and is against city ordinance. Violations may result in fines or special assessments.

"Televisions, computers, printers, cell phones, and many other common electronics are banned from landfills in Wisconsin," according to the city’s announcement. "All of these items are accepted at the drop-off sites for recycling for free from City of Madison residents. You just have to bring them to a drop-off site."

Electronics should not be set out for curbside pickup or left on terraces. The city also accepts additional electronic items such as Christmas tree lights, box fans, vacuums, kitchen appliances, and hair dryers at its drop-off locations.

Residents may bring one load per day that fits within a standard pick-up truck bed or small single-axle trailer. Larger loads will be denied access. Contractors are not permitted to use these facilities.

Businesses cannot use the city’s services for electronics recycling due to participation in the Wisconsin DNR e-Cycle program; they are directed instead to find alternative recyclers through the Wisconsin DNR website (https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Ecycle).

For more information about acceptable items and site hours, residents should check the drop-off site website (https://www.cityofmadison.com/streets/dropoff/sites.cfm). Those with questions can contact the Streets Division: east side residents should call 608-246-4532; west side residents should call 608-266-4681.

Further details about student move-out procedures can be found on the Streets Division’s Moving Days website (https://www.cityofmadison.com/streets/refuse/movingDays.cfm), while comprehensive information about electronics recycling is available on their dedicated page (https://www.cityofmadison.com/streets/refuse/electronics.cfm).

"By taking your electronics to a drop-off site, or another reputable recycler, you will protect your data and ensure the hazardous materials inside these devices are handled safely," states the announcement.