Waste Reduction

The Waste Reduction Division (formerly Recycling and Sanitation) is responsible for the collection and disposal of residential recyclables, trash, and leaf and yard waste. The Division also holds hazardous waste drop-off days up to four times per year, seasonal paint and motor oil drop-offs, and offers discounted backyard compost bins.

  • Video Introductions to the Recycling Blue Carts

    Recycling Video 1Recycling Video 3Recycling Video 2
    What?How?Who?
     
  • Leaf & Yard Waste

    Spring Leaf and Yard Waste Collection

    Help reduce the City's waste. Leaf and yard waste will be collected for composting from Monday, April 30 through Friday, May 25, on your recycling day.

    More Information »

  • Hazardous Waste 75x75

    Hazardous Waste Disposal Spring/Summer Drop-Off Events Scheduled

    Boston residents can safely dispose of hazardous waste for free at two events this spring/summer. (Note: Latex paint is no longer accepted at hazardous waste events. Latex paint is not hazardous. Let latex paint dry out completely, then set out with your regular trash.)

    View Dates and Information »

  • City Seal (75)

    Update on Yard Waste Collection in ALB Regulated Area

    Leaf and yard waste collected in the Asian Longhorn Beetle (ALB) regulated area can be placed curbside on your trash collection day, where it will be appropriately disposed of in accordance with the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and MA Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) ALB Eradication Program Guidelines. Please place yard waste on the curb by 7AM on your scheduled trash/recycling day. Tie branches with string, 3' maximum length and no wider than 1 inch. Do not put branches in barrels.

    ALB Trash Days Map »

    ALB Regulated Area Address Search »

Online Services

Applications

Announcements

  • Waste Reduction E-Newsletter

    Receive email updates about curbside recycling, compost bin sales, yard waste collection, hazardous waste drop-offs, and trash regulations.

    Subscribe Here

    View Past Newsletters

  • Missed Pickup

    If your trash or recycling was not picked up, please call the Mayor's Office (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) at 617-635-4500 or place an online service request by following the link below.

    Report Missed Trash/Recycling/Yard Waste/Bulk Item Pickup

Video

  • Single Stream Recycling

    Mayor Menino announces citywide expansion of the program.

    Watch Video

Related Links