Suffolk County, MA Property Maintenance: Trash Bin Storage (2026)

Trash and recycling bin regulation in Suffolk County focuses on rodent prevention and public-way cleanliness. Boston Code of Ordinances §7-1.3 (Collection of Refuse) and §16-26 (Rodent Control) require all trash to be stored in covered rigid containers with tight-fitting lids, or in city-issued Big Belly-style containers in commercial areas. Containers may be placed at the curb no earlier than 5 PM the evening before pickup and must be retrieved by midnight of collection day. Loose bags, overflowing containers, and uncovered bins are violations — fines range from $75 (first offense) to $300 (chronic). Commercial properties must use screened dumpsters behind sight-shielding enclosures and contract with a licensed hauler. Chelsea Code Chapter 10 requires similar covered-container use; Board of Health may order a specific container for chronic violators. Revere Municipal Code §8.04 mandates covered containers and fines for uncollected or overflowing trash. Winthrop Department of Public Works requires trash to be in DPW-issued 64-gallon wheeled carts and placed at the curb after 4 PM the day prior to pickup, retrieved by 8 AM the day after. Recycling: all four cities operate single-stream recycling with separate bins. Yard waste: seasonal DPW collection. Bulk items require scheduled pickup or private hauler. Hazardous waste must go to designated collection events. Multi-family buildings often have shared dumpsters; HOAs and owners are jointly responsible for compliance. Illegal dumping under MGL c. 270, §16 is subject to fines up to $5,500.