Effective waste management is crucial for maintaining a clean, healthy community. In Worcester, the Department of Public Works & Parks has developed a comprehensive trash and recycling program designed to serve residents efficiently and sustainably. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about trash pick up in Worcester, ensuring you stay informed and compliant with local waste disposal regulations.
References:
- Official Trash & Recycling Page: https://www.worcesterma.gov/trash-recycling
- Trash Pick Up Schedule: https://www.worcesterma.gov/trash-recycling/schedule
Trash Pick Up Schedule in Worcester
Residents must set their recyclables and trash at the curb between 6 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. on their scheduled collection day. It’s important to note that holiday schedules can impact regular trash pick up times.
Residential Trash Collection
Worcester uses a pay-as-you-throw Yellow Trash Bag program for household waste disposal. Residents can obtain recycling bins at City Hall (455 Main Street) or 20 East Worcester Street, 2nd Floor. The city encourages recycling, noting that increased recycling can help reduce waste management costs.
Recycling Services
The city promotes a robust recycling program with a simple motto: “The more you recycle, the less you’ll pay!” Residents can access recycling resources through multiple channels, including:
- Recycling bins available at city locations
- Online guides in multiple languages (Spanish, Portuguese, Vietnamese)
- Comprehensive recycling information and guidelines
Bulk & Large Item Pick Up
Worcester offers a Residential Drop-Off Center for residents to dispose of bulk waste items. The center provides:
- Unlimited bulk waste disposal
- Yard waste drop-off
- Hazardous waste collection days
- Christmas tree drop-off services
Holiday Trash Pick Up Changes
When a scheduled collection day falls on a holiday, the following rules apply:
- That day’s collection and subsequent collections will be delayed by one day
- Observed holidays causing delays in 2025 include:
- New Year’s Day (January 1)
- Memorial Day (May 26)
- Juneteenth (June 19)
- Independence Day (July 4)
- Labor Day (September 1)
- Thanksgiving Day (November 27)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
How to Request Services
Residents can access trash and recycling services through:
- Worcester 311 phone service
- Online Worcester 311 request system
- Reporting specific issues like:
- Illegal dumping
- Litter complaints
- Missed recycling bin collection
- Missed trash bag collection
Innovative Waste Management Initiatives
Worcester is taking significant steps towards sustainable waste management:
- Launched Worcester Green Corps for city-wide cleaning
- Introduced Beyond the Bin recycling search tool
- Developing the first Zero Waste Master Plan in Spring 2025
- Offering free clothing recycling pickup through Helpsy partnership
Contact Information
Trash and Recycling Department
Address: 20 East Worcester Street, Worcester, MA 01604
Phone: 508-929-1300
Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
By staying informed and following these guidelines, Worcester residents can contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable community while ensuring efficient waste management.
FAQ
Why is Worcester trash pickup delayed?Whenever a scheduled collection day falls on a holiday, that day’s collection and all remaining collections for the week will be delayed one day.
What holidays affect Worcester trash?The holidays which affect trash & recycling collection are New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas; IF the holiday falls on a weekend there is no delay.
Why hasn’t my garbage been picked up today?A garbage truck might skip your trash pickup for several reasons. Common reasons include improper sorting of waste, overweight or oversized containers, blocked access to the garbage due to parked vehicles or construction, hazardous materials in the garbage, or severe weather conditions.
Is there a fee for trash pickup in Worcester?Cards can be obtained from the Worcester Town Clerk. The charge for household garbage is $2.00 per bag up to a standard 33-gallon bag and $4.00 for any large bag over 33 gallons.
https://www.worcesterma.gov/trash-recycling
The City holds drop-off days specifically for household Hazardous Waste Day. There is also a yard waste drop-off area and a compost/winter sand pickup area.
https://www.worcesterma.gov/trash-recycling/schedule
Set recyclables and trash at the curb between 6 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. on your scheduled trash/recycling day. Whenever a scheduled collection day falls on a