California

Effective Date: 1/1/89; amended 2016, 2019
BCI Model: Yes
Deposit^a (refundable):Required (varies, stationary storage batteries exempt)^y
Split of Deposit:N/A
Deposit Refund Period:45 days
Point of Sale Sign^b: Retailer
Fee (Nonrefundable): $1; $2 starting April 1, 2022 (stationary storage batteries exempt)
Definition: “Lead-acid battery” means a battery weighing over five kilograms that is primarily composed of both lead and sulfuric acid, whether sulfuric acid is in liquid, solid, or gel state, with a capacity of six volts or more that is used for any of the following purposes:
(1) As a starting battery that is designed to deliver a high burst of energy to an internal combustion engine until it starts.
(2) As a motive power battery that is designed to provide the source of power for propulsion or operation of a vehicle, including a watercraft.
(3) As a stationary storage or standby battery that is designed to be used in systems where the battery acts as either electrical storage for electricity generation equipment or a source of emergency power, or otherwise serves as a backup in case of failure or interruption in the flow of power from the primary source.
(4) As a source of auxiliary power to support the electrical systems in a vehicle, as defined in Section 670 of the Vehicle Code, including an implement of husbandry as defined in Section 36000 of the Vehicle Code, or an aircraft.