Swampscott Shares Cart Waitlist, Pickup Dates In Trash Collection Shift

SWAMPSCOTT, MA — Swampscott is continuing its transition to automated trash and recycling collection and has released a new set of updates for residents, including a waitlist for smaller recycling carts, plans for additional cart distribution and dates for old bin collection.

The initial supply of 65-gallon recycling carts has been fully allocated and deliveries are now underway. Residents who want a smaller recycling cart can still complete the online request form, but new requests will now be placed on a waitlist until more carts become available.

The town said residents who made those requests will receive an email with rollout information and billing details. Distribution of those additional carts is expected to begin next week.

Swampscott also set a schedule for collecting old recycling bins as part of the changeover to the new system. Collection of old recycling bins is scheduled for the week of Aug. 17. Residents are asked to place old recycling carts at the curb on their regular trash collection day during that week.

For residents who prefer another option, the town said old recycling bins may also be dropped off on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026, during the Department of Public Works Metal Drop-Off Day.

The town described both pickup and drop-off as part of the final stages of the transition to the automated collection program.

Residents with questions can contact the town at trash@swampscottma.gov or 781-635-9621, or visit here for more information.