Acton Electronics Recycling Services

Coordinating Electronics Recycling with Acton’s Department of Public Works and Transfer Station Access

Electronics recycling in Acton is managed through the Department of Public Works (DPW), which oversees both curbside collection events and the Acton Transfer Station. Residents must obtain a valid Transfer Station sticker (annual fee: $150 per household) to access the facility at 14 Forest Road, open Tuesday through Saturday, 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Accepted electronics include computers, monitors, printers, and televisions, but items containing refrigerants (such as air conditioners) require separate handling. Bulk electronics collection is not available curbside; all e-waste must be brought to the Transfer Station. Fees for electronics disposal vary by item, typically ranging from $10 to $30 per unit. Residents should:

• Purchase or renew a Transfer Station sticker before visiting
• Review the Acton DPW Solid Waste page for accepted items and current fees
• Place electronics in designated bins at the facility
• Avoid leaving electronics at the curb, as this may result in code violations

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

Understanding Massachusetts E-Waste Disposal Bans and Acton’s Compliance Requirements

Massachusetts enforces a strict landfill ban on certain electronics, including cathode ray tube (CRT) monitors, televisions, and mercury-containing devices, under the Massachusetts Waste Bans. Acton residents are required to recycle these items through approved programs. The Acton Transfer Station is the primary drop-off location, and improper disposal may result in fines of $50 to $200 per violation. Key compliance steps include:

• Separating banned electronics from regular trash
• Delivering e-waste to the Transfer Station during operating hours
• Consulting the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection for a full list of banned items
• Ensuring all data is wiped from devices before recycling
• Following posted signage and staff instructions at the facility

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

Acton Code Enforcement and Safe Handling Protocols for Electronics Disposal

Proper handling of electronics in Acton is essential to prevent environmental contamination and ensure compliance with local code enforcement. The Acton Building Department and Code Enforcement Division monitor illegal dumping and improper storage of e-waste. Residents and businesses must:

• Store electronics indoors or in weatherproof containers until disposal
• Avoid dismantling electronics at home, as this may expose hazardous materials
• Use only licensed haulers for large-scale or commercial e-waste removal
• Schedule drop-off during Transfer Station hours to avoid after-hours violations
• Report illegal dumping to the Code Enforcement office

Failure to comply may result in code violations, fines, or mandatory remediation. For questions about safe handling or reporting violations, contact the Building Department.

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

Electronics Accepted, Prohibited Items, and Special Handling at Acton’s Transfer Station

The Acton Transfer Station accepts a wide range of electronics for recycling, but certain items are strictly prohibited or require special handling. Accepted items include:

• Desktop and laptop computers
• Monitors and televisions (CRT, LCD, LED)
• Printers, scanners, and fax machines
• Small household electronics (toasters, microwaves)
• Cell phones and tablets

Prohibited or restricted items:

• Devices containing refrigerants (must be processed separately)
• Large appliances (refrigerators, freezers)
• Hazardous waste (batteries, fluorescent bulbs)
• Medical equipment

Residents should check the Acton Solid Waste & Recycling Guide for a full list of accepted and prohibited items. Special handling fees may apply for televisions and monitors. All items must be placed in designated bins; staff are available to assist with heavy or bulky items.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Acton, MA?

• West Acton Village: Characterized by older single-family homes and narrow streets, requiring careful navigation for electronics drop-off. Residents often utilize the Transfer Station due to limited curbside options.
• South Acton: Features a mix of multi-family units and historic properties. Parking constraints and building access may necessitate scheduled drop-offs and use of smaller vehicles for e-waste transport.
• North Acton: Newer developments with wide driveways and ample parking make electronics recycling more accessible. Residents frequently participate in community recycling events.
• East Acton: Contains both residential and light commercial properties. Businesses must comply with commercial e-waste regulations and may require licensed haulers for large quantities.
• Kelley’s Corner: A commercial and retail hub where businesses and offices generate significant e-waste. Coordination with the DPW is essential for bulk electronics recycling and compliance with local ordinances.
• Acton Center: Historic district with older buildings and limited street access. Residents should plan for Transfer Station visits and be aware of code enforcement regarding curbside storage.
• Indian Village: Suburban neighborhood with single-family homes and easy driveway access, facilitating convenient drop-off of electronics at the Transfer Station.