Learn about the free services Public Works provides, find your weekly collection schedule, check out our zero waste programs, and more!
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Trash and Recycling
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Services
Contact: Public Works
code violations
Early Set Out: $25 Fine
Trash can be set out after 5 p.m. the night before your pick-up day.
Broken Container: $25 Fine
Residents are responsible for purchasing their own trash containers and replacing damaged containers.
Improper Storage: $25 Fine
Trash must be placed in trash barrels with a lid. If trash bags are being used, they should be 2 ply or .9 millimeter or greater plastic material.
Overfill Of Barrel Or Dumpster: $100 Fine
All trash must fit inside the barrels and have a lid.
Illegal Dumping: $100 - $10,000 Fine
You cannot get rid of waste in an unauthorized location. These locations include: vacant lots, public property, and parks/playgrounds.
How To Avoid Fines
Be sure to read all trash responsibilities to avoid code violations.
Trash Services Requests
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For missed trash pickup, or other trash related requests please contact 311
Boston 311
Download the Trash Day App
Never miss yard waste collection again.
With our free Trash Day app you can view a calendar for your home's collection dates, set reminders, and get notifications of schedule changes. You can also search a directory of hundreds of household items to find out the right way to dispose of them.
Events
EventsTranslations of Yard Waste Calendar And Trash and Recycling Guide (2025)
TranslationsLearn More
Contact: Public Works
Zero Waste Boston Plan
The City of Boston is dedicated to becoming a zero waste city. Click here to read the Zero Waste Plan, learn about the City’s plastic bag ban, and how you can help Boston reach its zero waste goals.
Boston's Zero Waste Directory
Find locations near you where you can donate or recycle items that can’t go in your home recycling bin or are too good to trash.
Zero Waste Programs
Watch this 20-minute video for a deep dive into Boston's many programs and services designed to make disposing of waste as safe and simple as possible.
