Boston residents have access to comprehensive waste management services designed to keep the city clean, sustainable, and environmentally responsible. The City of Boston’s Public Works Department offers robust trash pickup and special collection programs that help residents dispose of various items efficiently and safely.
References:
- Official Trash Information: https://www.boston.gov/departments/public-works/trash
- Special Collection Items: https://www.boston.gov/departments/public-works/special-collection-items
Trash Pick Up Schedule in Boston
Boston requires residents to place trash curbside no later than 6 a.m. on their designated collection day. To simplify the process, the city offers a free Trash Day App available on Google Play and the App Store, which provides:
- Collection date calendars
- Reminders
- Schedule change notifications
- Recycling item directory
Residential Trash Collection Guidelines
Residents must follow specific regulations for trash disposal:
- Use containers with lids
- Maximum container size is 32 gallons
- Containers larger than 32 gallons must have a grab bar
- Trash bags must be:
- 2-ply
- .9 millimeter or greater plastic material
- No kitchen bags, grocery bags, or cardboard boxes allowed
Recycling Services
Boston encourages waste reduction through its Zero Waste initiative. Residents are advised to:
- Use the Waste Sorting Tool in the Trash Day App
- Check if items can be recycled, reused, or donated
- Consult the city’s recycling search tool before disposing of items
Bulk & Large Item Pick Up
The city offers special collection for various large items:
- Furniture can be placed with regular curbside trash
- Appliances like refrigerators, TVs, and air conditioners require 311 scheduling
- Limited to 10 items per calendar year
- Maximum of 5 items per appointment
Yard Waste & Seasonal Services
Boston provides Zero Waste Day drop-off events for hazardous waste disposal. Residents can check the schedule online for convenient drop-off locations.
Holiday Trash Pick Up Changes
While specific holiday schedules aren’t detailed in the sources, residents are encouraged to use the Trash Day App for the most up-to-date collection information during holiday periods.
How to Request Services
Residents can access services through:
- Boston 311 phone number: 617-635-4500
- Email: [email protected]
- Trash Day App
- Online service requests
Important Restrictions
The city does not collect:
- Construction debris
- Automotive parts
- Plumbing fixtures
- Fences
- Water heaters
- Fire debris
Boston’s trash pickup and special collection services are designed to promote community cleanliness, environmental responsibility, and efficient waste management. By following guidelines and utilizing available resources like the Trash Day App, residents can contribute to the city’s sustainability efforts.
FAQ
How do I dispose of a large item in Boston?Bulk Pick Up – If you need bulk pick-up after August 22nd, 2022, you will need to call Waste Management directly to schedule a pickup. Bulk items include small furniture, bedding, mattresses, hot water tanks and household appliances.
What is considered bulk pick up?What’s considered bulky trash? Accepted materials vary by location, but common bulky, large or heavy items include: Mattress & Box Springs. Bed Frames.
Where can I throw away furniture for free near Boston, MA?To responsibly dispose of furniture in Boston, schedule a free curbside bulk pickup through BOS:311, or call Grunber at (617) 800-6746 to set up an appointment at your convenience.
What counts as bulky?Bulk refuse may include either two extra bags of trash or one large appliance or piece of furniture. No item can weigh more than 250 pounds or be longer than 7 feet.
https://www.boston.gov/departments/public-works/trash
Trash on a Vacant Lot Request a bulk item pickup Request recycling and yard waste stickers Report a missed trash collection. To submit a 311
https://www.boston.gov/departments/public-works/special-collection-items
311 can help answer questions about bulk item pickup in the City of Boston. Please dial 3-1-1 or call 617-635-4500. Need assistance? 311 can