Cambridge vs Lowell
How do pickup rules & schedules rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Lowell, MA?
Cambridge and Lowell have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge Department of Public Works collects residential trash once per week on a zone-based schedule. Carts must be placed curbside by 6 AM on collection day and removed by the following morning.
View full Cambridge rules →Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Lowell provides weekly curbside trash and recycling collection. Residents must use approved barrels or city-issued purple bags and set out containers by 7 a.m. on their collection day.
View full Lowell rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Lowell |
|---|---|---|
| Collection frequency | Once per week by zone | - |
| Set-out time | After 5 PM prior evening, by 6 AM day-of | - |
| Cart removal | Remove by end of collection day | - |
| Overflow | Yellow overflow sticker required | - |
| Large buildings | 7-plus units use private hauler | - |
| Program | - | Pay-as-you-throw purple bags |
| Set-Out Time | - | By 7 a.m. collection day |
| Frequency | - | Weekly |
| Holiday Delay | - | One day later |
| Contact | - | Lowell 311 or 978-674-4020 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
When should I put my trash out?
No earlier than 5 PM the evening before and no later than 6 AM on your collection day.
What if I have extra trash?
Buy a yellow Cambridge overflow sticker and affix it to each extra bag.
Lowell FAQ
Where do I buy purple bags?
Official Lowell purple trash bags are sold at participating grocery and hardware stores citywide.
What if my trash is missed?
Report missed pickups to Lowell 311 within 24 hours so the contractor can return.
Compare other topics
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