Recycling carts are available to all residential buildings, City buildings and some nonprofits. Click here to request a toter.
Recycling must be set out by 7AM on your collection day, or after 6PM the night before. Please report it at CambridgeMA.Gov/311 (preferred) or leave a voicemail at 617-349-4800. Leave materials at the curb and pickup will be done by the end of the next collection day.
Sometimes, your recycling may have received a rejection sticker due to unacceptable items or preparation. Double check that your cart has only the proper materials.
Please don’t recycle these items curbside:
- Plastic bags & Plastic film (air pillows from package deliveries, plastic wrap, shrink wrap)
- Clothes Hangers
- Electronics
- Clothing & Textiles (rugs, towels, curtains)
- Hoses & Cables
- Pots/ Pans/ Scrap Metal
- Paper Takeout containers, paper towels, and paper plates
Be sure to give recyclables a quick rinse. Use the
Get Rid of It Right tool to find locations to determine if you can recycle the items elsewhere.
Recycling carts cannot be placed on the curb until 6PM the night before collection. Please make sure your cart does not block the sidewalk. Carts that are put out early than 6PM the night before collection are subject to a fine.