Rhode Island Statewide Rule

Rhode Island Bulky Waste and Disposal Restrictions

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Rhode Island (2026)

Key Facts

Mattress program: RIGL 23-90
Electronics ban: RIGL 23-24.10
Mercury ban: RIGL 23-24.9
Banned items: Mattresses, e-waste, tires
Central Landfill: Johnston, RI

Last verified: August 20, 2026Source: Rhode Island General Assembly

Summary

Rhode Island prohibits disposal of designated bulky and hazardous items in regular trash statewide. Mattresses, electronics, mercury devices, and tires must be diverted under separate state programs.

§ 23-24.10-5. Disposal ban. (1) After January 31, 2009, no person shall dispose of any of the covered electronic products in a manner other than by recycling or disposal as hazardous waste. (2) This ban on disposal shall apply to whole units of covered electronic products, as well as to the constituent subunits and materials from which the units are made. (3) No solid waste landfill or transfer station regulated pursuant to chapter 23-18.9 shall accept any covered electronic products for the purposes of disposal after January 31, 2009. All solid waste landfills and transfer stations regulated pursuant to chapter

Source: Rhode Island General AssemblyView official code

Full Breakdown

Rhode Island bans landfill disposal of several bulky and hazardous items statewide. Under RIGL 23-90, mattresses must be recycled through the Mattress Recycling Council program (free drop-off at participating sites). RIGL 23-24.10 bans CRT and electronic waste from landfills, requiring use of certified recyclers. RIGL 23-24.9 prohibits mercury-added device disposal. Tires, lead-acid batteries, and white goods (appliances) are also banned from disposal at the Central Landfill. Municipalities must provide or contract for diversion services but cannot allow trash disposal of banned items.

Violations & Penalties

Disposal of banned items may result in load rejection at the Central Landfill, fines up to $1,000, and civil penalties under product stewardship statutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I dispose of an old mattress?

Rhode Island residents can drop off mattresses free at participating sites through the Mattress Recycling Council's Bye Bye Mattress program. Curbside trash disposal is prohibited.

Can I throw a TV in the trash?

No. Televisions and computer monitors are banned from Rhode Island landfills. Use a certified electronics recycler or municipal e-waste collection event.

Sources

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