Lightbulbs and ballasts
Many types of lightbulbs contain mercury, heavy metals, or other toxic chemicals and should be properly disposed of to avoid contaminating the environment or harming human health (Wisconsin DNR). Examples include:
- tube- and compact-style fluorescent bulbs, including compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs);
- mercury vapor bulbs – i.e., high-intensity lamps with blue-white, originally used as farmyard lights;
- metal halide bulbs – i.e., newer, more efficient high-intensity lights; and
- high and low-pressure sodium vapor bulbs – i.e., yellow lights used for outdoor security lighting.
Read more on recycling mercury containing light bulbs.
Lamp and Bulb Management (DNR)
Disposal options:
Any lightbulbs (compact fluorescent, tube fluorescent, “green” fluorescent, ballasts, incandescent, halogen, Christmas lights, etc.) and batteries of any kind can be brought to a Batteries Plus Bulbs store for proper recycling and disposal during normal business hours. Fees may apply depending on item. Call your nearest location for pricing details:
Batteries Plus Bulbs – Janesville Location
3200 Wellington Place, Janesville
608-756-5355
Batteries Plus Bulbs – Madison East Location
4706 East Washington Ave, Madison
608-242-9773
Batteries Plus Bulbs – Monona Location
115 East Broadway, Suite 105, Monona
608-535-6595
Batteries Plus Bulbs – Waukesha Location
215 East Sunset Drive, Waukesha
262-542-4941
Any lightbulbs and ballasts can also be brought to Jefferson County’s Clean Sweep for proper disposal. **Details on these events can be found on the Solid Waste/Clean Sweep/Recycling home page.** Click HERE for a list of all accepted materials at Clean Sweep. *link list* Households and farms are charged $10 flat fee per car. Businesses are charged based on the weight and type of their material. Registration required. Call 920-674-7430 to register.
The Solid Waste/Air Quality Committee of Jefferson County does not endorse or otherwise sponsor any of the businesses mentioned in this list. The businesses mentioned have not been reviewed by the Solid Waste/Air Quality Committee for compliance with applicable federal, state, or local environmental laws.