Quincy's Trash & Recycling: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles trash & recycling a little differently. In Quincy, Massachusetts, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Bin Placement Rules

Quincy, Massachusetts (Norfolk County) bars residents from setting rubbish for collection within 10 feet of an abutter's property or more than a day before pickup, and requires empty cans removed within a day.

Key details: Abutter distance: 10 feet minimum. Early set-out limit: One day before pickup. Removal limit: One day after pickup. Front-yard cans: Only during 24-hour window. Governing chapter: Chapter 293, Solid Waste.

Setting trash within 10 feet of an abutter's property, putting cans out more than a day early, or leaving empty containers out past a day after pickup violates § 293-1B.

Illegal Dumping

Quincy bans dumping trash, fill, or debris at any site not approved as a dumping ground, and reserves its public dump for City residents only, with violations fined $200 per offense.

Key details: Core ban: No dumping at unapproved sites. Penalty: $200 per offense. Public dump access: Quincy residents only. Out-of-town waste: Barred from City dumps. State statute tied in: MGL c. 111 § 150A.

Dumping in an unapproved area or hauling waste there by vehicle violates §§ 293-6/293-7 and is penalized under MGL c. 40 § 21D at $200 per offense, with each day a separate violation.

This is one of the stricter rules in Quincy's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Dumpster Rules

Quincy requires commercial dumpsters and dumpsters at 8-plus-unit residential buildings to be sited clear of curbs and traffic sightlines with Health Commissioner sign-off, kept covered, and generally screened on a paved pad.

Key details: Applies to: Businesses & 8+ unit buildings. Placement approval: Health Commissioner + Inspectional Services. Cover: Required except while filling. Enclosure: Screened, on concrete/asphalt pad. Noncriminal fine: $50 per day, MGL c.40 §21D.

Violating § 293-2 can draw a fine up to the Code's general maximum under § 1-1, or a $50 noncriminal fine per MGL c. 40 § 21D: each day of continued violation is a separate offense.

The Bottom Line

Quincy's trash & recycling rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Quincy is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Quincy's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.