Councilors Ross and Arroyo Move to Prevent Noisy Nighttime Trash Pickup

The Boston City Council is considering a measure to restrict noisy trucks from collecting trash in the middle of the night. 

In response to complaints from residents, City Councilor At-Large Felix G. Arroyo and District City Councilor Michael Ross introduced a home rule petition to give the City of Boston authority to regulate commercial trash collection timing.

“Presently, trash may be collected in the middle of the night right outside the windows and doorsteps of residences without consideration to those who are living next door,” Councilor Arroyo said at the last Boston City Council meeting.

Back Bay, Beacon Hill, North End, the Leather District and Chinatown are home to many restaurants located next residential neighborhoods, and many people have contacted Councilor Arroyo’s office about noisy trash pick up taking place throughout the night.

Although the City grants permits to haulers providing trash collections services, current state law prevents the City from restricting the hours of the day when garbage can be collected in business or commercial areas.  The home rule petition would give the City authority to regulate when trash may be collected.

"I am pleased to join Councilor Arroyo to help improve the quality of Boston’s downtown residents with this sensible proposal," said Councilor Michael Ross, whose district includes Back Bay, Beacon Hill, West End, and Fenway. "I look forward to participating in the public dialogue and bringing this new legislation to fruition.”

State Rep. Marty Walz and fellow downtown State Representative Aaron Michlewitz are working on legislation at the State House that would enable all municipalities to regulate the timing of trash pick-up in commercial and business districts.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues on this issue," Arroyo said in a statement. "What we would like to ensure is that our residents and businesses are able to peacefully co-exist and thrive in our city."