Swampscott’s Two Trash Barrel Limit Begins July 16th

Beginning Monday, July 16, Swampscott residences will be allowed two barrels or bags of trash each week, down from the current three container allowance.  This is the final step in the Waste Reduction Program barrel limits.

Residents are reminded to use two barrels no larger than 35 gallons or two trash bags of similar size.  Each container and its contents may weigh no more than 50 pounds. A single large barrel or toter up to 65 gallons may be substituted for the two 35 gallon barrels. All trash in these larger barrels must be contained in bags.

In addition, each residence is allowed one bulk item per week for free, contact the Health Department if you are unsure what is considered a bulk item.

For those needing additional trash capacity, $2 overthrow stickers can be purchased and placed on individual bags of trash. The stickers are available at the Health Department or through the mail by sending a check and self-addressed stamped envelope to: Town of Swampscott, Health Department, 22 Monument Avenue, Swampscott 01907.

The Waste Reduction Program which began November of 2011 has increased curbside recycling from 18% to 23% which in turn has decreased the trash tonnage compared to past years. This effort has reined in tipping costs charged to the Town for trash disposal.

Presently, town officials are evaluating weekly recycling pick up.

Today, there are many opportunities to diverting materials from the trash, such as: donating useful items to charity, and bringing metals, rigid plastics, electronic devices, Styrofoam, plastic bags, and old textiles/clothing  to collection locations.

For more information contact the Health Department at 781-596-8864.