Boston provides free bulk item pickup for residential properties through the Department of Public Works. Residents must schedule pickup through 311. Items accepted include furniture, mattresses, and large appliances. Electronics and hazardous waste require separate disposal. Mattresses must be wrapped in plastic for pickup.
Boston's Department of Public Works provides bulk item pickup for residential properties (1-6 units). Residents must schedule pickup by calling 311 or using the 311 app. Accepted items include furniture, mattresses, box springs, large appliances (stoves, refrigerators, washers, dryers), and other oversized household items. Mattresses and box springs must be enclosed in a plastic mattress bag for pickup due to bed bug prevention protocols. Refrigerators and freezers must have doors removed or secured for safety. Electronics (TVs, computers, monitors) are not accepted through regular bulk pickup and must be brought to a designated drop-off event or recycling facility. Hazardous waste, including paint, chemicals, and batteries, must be disposed of at the city's hazardous waste collection events held several times per year. Construction debris is not accepted and requires a private hauler. Items should be placed curbside by 7 AM on the scheduled pickup day.
Dumping bulk items without scheduling pickup may result in a $200 fine for illegal dumping. Leaving mattresses without plastic bags results in non-collection. Placing electronics or hazardous waste with bulk items results in non-collection and potential fines.
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