An Update on Your Many Solid Waste Questions

Department of Public Works

35 Worcester St., West Boylston

solidwaste@westboylston-ma.gov

508-835-4820

I am starting to see carts show up.  When do I get mine?

We are attempting to deliver the carts on the same day as your trash is normally collected.

Is it too late to “Opt-Out"?

In general, yes, it is.  If you were on the list of people to whom the Opt-Out form was mailed, it is too late to opt-out.  If you do not think you were sent this form, contact solidwaste@westboylston-ma.gov.  If you were not on that list, we will email you the form and allow you to opt-out if you qualify.  The only other exceptions are extraordinary reasons such as the property had been demolished or condemned, or a similar situation.  You may contact us at solidwaste@westboylston-ma.gov to tell us this, and we will advise you of our decision.  The cut-off for this will be June 25, 2026.

When do I start to use my carts?

You may use the carts next week on your normal collection day.

Do I still have to use the PAYT (Green) bags?

These remain until June 30, 2026.  After that, you can use any type of trash bag, including your extra green PAYT bags.  Refunds are not being issued for unused bags.

How do I place my carts for pick-up?

We are attempting to place them (during delivery) where they'll be required to be placed for pick up.  Each cart will have a “How To” use flyer.

I may not have enough room in the cart for my garbage.  May I place garbage atop the lids or on the ground?

No.  Overflow of the cart is not allowed.  Bags on the ground can’t be collected by the new mechanized system.

May I ask for extra carts?

No.  Not until after January 1, 2027.  There will be an extra charge for each additional cart.

I have too many carts.  May I ask you to consolidate them into fewer carts?

Yes.  Please send an email to solidwaste@westboylston-ma.gov and we will email you the form, or you can find it by clicking here.  If you are approved for a reduction in carts, we will come and collect the excess carts.  However, you must still pay the full amount based on the number of units you are receiving service for.

What if I want a small trash cart (35 Gallons)?

If you are applying for the Senior Discount Rate, you will find a space on the form to apply for a smaller cart.  They will be issued on a first come first serve basis to the extent supplies last.  We will order more if demand proves strong.

What if I want different carts but am not 65+?

All others must wait until January 1, 2027 at which an open application period will be announced.

Are you really charging me a $50 fee for the smaller bin swap or consolidation of the number of carts?

No.  The normal pick-up fee of $50.00 will be waived for anyone who makes their request during the deployment window ending on June 30, 2026.

How do I pay my bill?

Online, by mail, or in person at Town Hall.

May I submit my application with my payment for the Senior Discount Rate when I mail or pay my bill in person?

Please do not.  They are processed in two separate offices.  Combining them only creates a delay in processing your application.  You may mail them to the DPW at 35 Worcester Street or put them into one of the drop boxes inside Town Hall at one of the two main entry doors.

I rent. Am I eligible for the Senior Discount Rate?

The Senior Discount Rate only applies if you are 65+ years old by July 1, 2026, you own the property and you reside in the property.  It does not apply to any other unit.

What if I do not turn 65 until mid-year?

Unfortunately, there has to be a rule and a cutoff.  You may apply again in the April Opt-Out period next year.

Will you fill out my Senior Discount form and make my copies?

In person help is available at the Senior Center (10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday thru Friday).  You need to bring the required copies of the documents to prove your age and that you reside in the property.  If you do not have copies they will make them for you $0.25 per page (cash only).  No other office can provide you this kind of in person help or make copies. For more information on this service, please click here.

You can also apply online by clicking here.

When will I find out if I am approved?

Due to the volume of applications, it could take us up to three weeks to process your application.

What if my cart does not handle my waste or I simply want to help keep costs down?

Always think Reduce first!

Manage Food Waste - Almost 1/3 of household trash weight comes from food!  Food waste is heavy, wet, and expensive to transport.

• Eat or Freeze: Keep an eye on leftovers and expiration dates to reduce waste.
• Compost at Home: Start a bin for fruit peels, coffee grounds, and vegetable scraps. It’s the single most effective way to drop your trash weight.  Avoid meat and dairy in your home bin so it doesn't attract unwanted "visitors".
• Resources: Check out the Mass.gov Guide to Home Composting.
• Use/Reuse Tote Bags for grocery and other trips

Next think Reuse!

Before you toss it, ask if it has a second life.  Put it on Craigslist for free or Freecycle.

Finally think Recycle!