Boston mandates recycling for all residential properties under the city's recycling ordinance. Single-stream recycling accepts paper, cardboard, glass, metals, and plastics #1-7. Contaminated recycling is not collected. Commercial properties must also recycle under MassDEP's waste ban regulations.
Boston requires all residential properties to participate in curbside recycling. Recycling is single-stream — all acceptable materials go in the blue cart without sorting. Accepted materials include: newspapers, magazines, mixed paper, cardboard (flattened), glass bottles and jars, aluminum and steel cans, and plastics #1-7 (bottles, containers, tubs). Items that cannot be recycled include: plastic bags, Styrofoam, food-soiled paper, ceramics, mirrors, and window glass. Contamination is a significant issue — bins containing non-recyclable items or food waste may be left uncollected with an educational tag. MassDEP's waste ban (310 CMR 19.017) prohibits disposal of certain materials including cardboard, metals, yard waste, and food waste from large generators. Commercial properties must comply with the waste ban through private recycling contracts. Boston has set a zero-waste goal and offers textile recycling, food waste composting in select neighborhoods, and periodic household hazardous waste collection events. The city distributes recycling guides in multiple languages.
Failure to recycle does not carry a direct fine for residents, but contaminated bins are left uncollected. Commercial violation of MassDEP waste ban carries fines up to $25,000 per violation. Repeated contamination may result in service review.
Boston, MA
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Boston, MA
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Boston, MA
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Boston, MA
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Boston require Inspectional Services Department permits when they include gas, plumbing, electrical, or structural work. Built-...
Boston, MA
Boston treats smokers and solid-fuel grills (wood, pellet, charcoal) the same as charcoal grills under Massachusetts Fire Code 527 CMR 1.00. Use on balconies...
Boston, MA
Boston's Fire Prevention Code (527 CMR 1.00, Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code) prohibits the use or storage of LP-gas grills and propane cylinder...
See how Boston's recycling requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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