Acton Appliance Removal Services

Coordinating Appliance Removal with Acton’s Department of Public Works: Schedules, Fees, and Drop-Off Procedures

Appliance removal in Acton is managed through the Department of Public Works (DPW), which oversees both curbside bulk collection and the Acton Transfer Station. Residents must schedule bulk appliance pickups in advance by contacting the DPW; pickups are typically available on the first Monday of each month, with a limit of two large items per household per collection. Fees for appliance removal vary by item, with a standard charge of $20 per appliance. Alternatively, residents may self-haul appliances to the Acton Transfer Station, open Monday through Saturday from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. A valid Acton Transfer Station sticker is required for entry, and proof of residency may be requested. Accepted appliances include refrigerators (with doors removed), washers, dryers, and stoves. Items containing refrigerants must be certified as properly evacuated before disposal. For more information, visit the Acton Department of Public Works.

Department of Public Works
472 Main Street, Acton, MA 01720
Phone: (978) 929-7740
Official Website: Department of Public Works

Acton’s Environmental Compliance: State Landfill Bans and Appliance Recycling Mandates

Massachusetts enforces strict landfill bans on certain appliances and mandates recycling for items containing hazardous materials. Under the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) regulations, appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers are prohibited from landfill disposal due to refrigerant content. All refrigerants must be removed by a certified technician in compliance with EPA Section 608 regulations. Additionally, metal components must be separated for recycling at approved facilities. Residents are encouraged to utilize the Acton Transfer Station’s designated recycling area for appliances, where staff will verify proper preparation. Violations of landfill bans may result in fines of $100–$500 per incident. For a full list of banned items and recycling requirements, consult the MassDEP Waste Disposal Ban List.

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
One Winter Street, Boston, MA 02108
Phone: (617) 292-5500
Official Website: Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection

Permit and Access Requirements for Appliance Removal in Acton: Curbside, Transfer Station, and Building Considerations

Proper appliance removal in Acton may require permits or special access arrangements, especially for multi-family buildings or commercial properties. Curbside collection requires advance scheduling and adherence to DPW guidelines, including placement by 6:00 AM on collection day and removal of doors from refrigerators and freezers. For self-haul to the Transfer Station, a valid sticker and proof of residency are mandatory. Commercial haulers must be licensed and may need to coordinate with building management for elevator or loading dock access. In historic districts or properties governed by homeowners’ associations (HOAs), additional approvals may be required. Key requirements include:

• Advance scheduling for curbside pickup (minimum 48 hours)
• Transfer Station sticker for self-haul (annual fee applies)
• Building access coordination for large or multi-story properties
• Permit or HOA approval in restricted zones
• Compliance with fire code (do not block exits or hydrants)

For questions about permits or access, contact the Acton Building Department.

Building Department
472 Main Street, Acton, MA 01720
Phone: (978) 929-6633
Official Website: Building Department

Safe Handling and Hazardous Material Protocols for Appliance Removal in Acton

Safety and environmental protection are paramount when removing appliances in Acton, particularly those containing hazardous substances. Appliances manufactured before 1978 may contain lead-based paint or asbestos, requiring compliance with the EPA Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule. Refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioners must have refrigerants professionally evacuated before disposal. Heavy lifting should be performed using proper equipment to prevent injury, and property protection measures (such as floor coverings and corner guards) are recommended in multi-unit buildings. Residents should never attempt to dismantle appliances containing hazardous materials themselves. Key safety protocols include:

• Certified refrigerant removal for cooling appliances
• Lead-safe work practices in pre-1978 buildings
• Use of dollies and lifting straps for heavy items
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) for all handlers
• Advance notification to building management for large removals

For hazardous waste questions, contact the Acton Health Department.

Health Department
472 Main Street, Acton, MA 01720
Phone: (978) 929-6632
Official Website: Health Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Acton, MA?

• West Acton Village: Characterized by older homes and narrow streets, this area often requires smaller removal vehicles and careful navigation. Many properties have limited curbside space, making advance scheduling and driveway access essential.
• South Acton: With a mix of multi-family residences and historic buildings, appliance removal here may involve stairwell-only access and coordination with building management. Parking permits are sometimes needed for removal trucks.
• North Acton: Predominantly newer single-family homes with wide driveways, this neighborhood allows for easier appliance loading and transfer station access. Residents typically have valid Transfer Station stickers for self-haul options.
• East Acton: Features a blend of commercial and residential properties. Commercial appliance removal may require business licensing and after-hours scheduling to avoid disrupting business operations.
• Kelley’s Corner: A busy commercial district with retail and office buildings, requiring coordination for loading dock access and compliance with fire lane regulations. Removal during off-peak hours is often recommended.
• Acton Center: Home to several historic properties and municipal buildings, this area may require additional permits or historic district approvals for appliance removal. Access can be limited during town events.
• Indian Village: A residential neighborhood with cul-de-sacs and limited street parking, making driveway placement and neighbor notification important for smooth appliance removal.