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1. How do I sign up for Town refuse collection?

A: Residents of, and commercial businesses operation in, Brookline may sign up for Town refuse collection at any time. The application procedure follows:

1. Obtain a Refuse Agreement Application:
   1. Email Refuse Billing at [email protected] and include New Refuse Account Request in the subject line.
   2. Visit the DPW Administration Office located on the 4th floor of the Brookline Town Hall, at 333 Washington Street.
   3. Download an Application from the Public Works page.
2. Fill out a Refuse Agreement Application, and return it to the DPW office on the 4th floor, at the Brookline Town Hall either in person, by mail, or via email. See application for details.
   1. Include a letter from current trash collection company indicating cancellation of service, and the date of cancellation.
   2. Processing of the application may take up to 30 days. The DPW will deliver, to the residential address, the recycling and trash carts chosen on the application by the customer.

2. How do I choose a recycling and/or trash cart?

A: New subscribers to Town Refuse Collection choose carts on the Refuse Agreement Application.

Existing subscribers should visit our Trash Billing Info page for more on swapping carts.

3. When will I receive my first bill?

A: Town refuse collection customers are assessed at an annual rate, broken down into four (4) quarterly payments. Billing invoices are generate on the first day of the following months: July, October, January, April.

4. How do I know which trash cart is the best choice?

A: This question is difficult to answer, as each resident has their own habits to consider. DPW suggests keeping track of the number of trash bags placed at the curb each week, and using the following chart above as a decision-making guide.

Price chart for different sizes of trash cans

Barrel size	Price	Rough Size	Dimensions	Notes
35 Gallon	$230 per year	Will hold an average of three (3) kitchen garbage bags.	20.20" wide,  39.13" high	60% of Brookline residents produce 35 gallons, or less, of solid waste per week.
65 Gallon	$310 per year	Will hold an average of six (6) kitchen garbage bags.	26.70" wide,  40.58" high	This cart is the same size as the standard Town-issued recycling toter.
95 Gallon	$392 per year	Will hold an average of ten (10) kitchen garbage bags.	26.70" wide,  43.13" high	The largest waste cart offered. Those selecting this size should evaluate their recycling practices.

5. How do I dispose of my old trash bin or barrel?

Call 617-730-2156 or email Department of Public Works at [email protected] to coordinate pickup of your old waste bin or barrel.