Medford Yard Waste Removal Services

Coordinating Yard Waste Removal with Medford’s Department of Public Works

Yard waste removal in Medford is managed through the Department of Public Works (DPW), which provides curbside collection for leaves, grass clippings, and small branches from April through November. Residents must use biodegradable paper bags or clearly marked barrels (no plastic bags permitted) and place materials curbside by 7:00 AM on scheduled collection days. The DPW also operates a transfer station at 21 James Street, open Monday through Saturday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, where residents can drop off yard debris with proof of residency. Fees may apply for large loads, typically $35 per ton with a $10 minimum. Commercial haulers must be licensed by the city and comply with all local disposal regulations. For up-to-date collection schedules and program details, visit the Department of Public Works.

Department of Public Works
City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, MA 02155
Phone: (781) 393-2405
Official Website: Department of Public Works

Medford’s Yard Waste Disposal Regulations and Environmental Compliance

Medford enforces strict yard waste disposal regulations to comply with Massachusetts’ landfill bans and promote environmental stewardship. Yard waste—including leaves, grass, and brush—cannot be placed in regular trash or plastic bags. The city requires separation of yard debris for composting, and improper disposal may result in code violations and fines of $50–$200 per incident. Residents must:

• Use only paper yard waste bags or labeled barrels
• Exclude dirt, rocks, and stumps (not accepted curbside)
• Bundle branches (no longer than 3 feet, tied with string)
• Avoid mixing yard waste with household trash
• Follow posted collection schedules and drop-off hours

For more information on state landfill bans and composting requirements, see the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.

Department of Code Enforcement
City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, MA 02155
Phone: (781) 393-2560
Official Website: Department of Code Enforcement

Permit and Access Requirements for Yard Waste Drop-Off in Medford

Accessing Medford’s transfer station for yard waste drop-off requires proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or utility bill. Commercial vehicles and contractors must obtain a city-issued permit and pay applicable disposal fees. The transfer station prohibits dumping of contaminated loads, and all users must:

• Present valid Medford ID at entry
• Separate yard waste from other debris
• Adhere to posted hours (Mon–Sat, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM)
• Observe weight limits (loads over 200 pounds incur per-ton fees)
• Follow on-site signage and staff instructions

Permits for commercial haulers are available through the DPW and must be renewed annually. For questions about access or permit applications, contact the DPW directly.

Building Department
City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, MA 02155
Phone: (781) 393-2509
Official Website: Building Department

Massachusetts State Yard Waste Laws and Recycling Mandates

Under Massachusetts law, yard waste is banned from landfills and must be composted or processed at approved facilities. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) enforces these requirements, mandating that municipalities like Medford provide separate collection or drop-off options. Key state mandates include:

• Landfill ban on leaves, grass, and brush
• Mandatory composting or mulching of yard debris
• Prohibition of plastic bags for yard waste
• Annual reporting of municipal recycling rates
• Penalties for non-compliance (fines, loss of disposal privileges)

Residents and businesses must comply with both city and state regulations to avoid penalties and support statewide waste diversion goals. For detailed guidance, consult the MassDEP’s Solid Waste Management Program.

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

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Medford, MA?

• West Medford: Predominantly single-family homes with mature trees, requiring frequent leaf and branch removal. Narrow streets may limit truck access; curbside collection is essential for efficient service.
• South Medford: Dense multi-family housing and limited yard space create higher demand for scheduled pickups. Parking restrictions may affect collection timing; residents should place yard waste out early.
• Medford Hillside: Proximity to Tufts University results in frequent move-outs and seasonal yard cleanups. Student housing turnover increases the volume of yard debris during spring and fall.
• Wellington: Newer developments with HOA-managed landscaping often require advance notice for bulk yard waste removal. Driveway access is generally good, but HOA rules may restrict curbside placement.
• Lawrence Estates: Historic homes with large lots generate significant yard waste, especially during autumn. Tree canopy and older infrastructure may require special handling for large branches.
• Glenwood: Mix of residential and commercial properties; alley access is common, facilitating rear pickup. Businesses must comply with commercial disposal permit requirements.
• North Medford: Larger properties and proximity to wooded areas lead to higher volumes of brush and storm debris. Residents often utilize the transfer station for bulk drop-off, especially after severe weather events.