Swampscott Tightens Limits On Trash Collection

SWAMPSCOTT, MA — Swampscott will begin providing 35-gallon trash barrels to residents as part of a new, waste reduction program that goes into effect Aug. 3.

"Over the last few years, Swampscott has seen a drastic increase in solid waste costs due to several factors," the town said on a frequently-asked-questions handout about the new program.

Under the new program, residents who can't fit all their trash in the barrel will need to put the excess out in overflow bags. Residents will also be required to use the town-issued barrels for trash collection.

The excess fee is $15 for five bags. Overflow bags can be purchased at Swampscott Town Hall, CVS, Stop & Shop, Whole Foods, Walgreens, JRH Services and Richdale Convenience Store in Swampscott.

Under the current rules, residents can dispose of one 65-gallon barrel or two 35-gallon barrels each week. Overflow bags are $2 each.

Swampscott residents are permitted unlimited curbside recycling service under the new program. A complete overview of the new program is available on the town's Website.

Dave Copeland covers Swampscott and other North Shore communities for Patch. He can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).