Lexington Yard Waste Removal Services

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

Yard waste removal in Lexington, MA is managed through the Department of Public Works (DPW), which oversees curbside collection and transfer station operations. Residents must adhere to the town’s collection schedule, with yard waste typically picked up biweekly from April through November. Accepted materials include grass clippings, leaves, and small branches (less than 3 inches in diameter), which must be placed in paper yard waste bags or open barrels—plastic bags are strictly prohibited. The DPW also operates a transfer station at 60 Hartwell Avenue, open Monday through Saturday, where residents can drop off yard debris with a valid permit. Fees may apply for large loads or commercial drop-offs. To ensure compliance:

• Use only approved containers (paper bags or barrels)
• Place materials curbside by 7:00 AM on collection day
• Exclude dirt, rocks, and stumps from yard waste
• Obtain a resident permit for transfer station access
• Check the DPW website for holiday schedule changes

Department of Public Works
1625 Massachusetts Ave, Lexington, MA 02420
Phone: (781) 862-0500
Official Website: Department of Public Works

Lexington’s Yard Waste Disposal Regulations and Environmental Compliance

Lexington enforces strict regulations to ensure yard waste is managed in an environmentally responsible manner. The town prohibits the disposal of yard waste in regular trash, in accordance with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) landfill bans. Composting and mulching are encouraged to reduce landfill use and support local sustainability goals. Residents must:

• Separate yard waste from household trash and recyclables
• Avoid including invasive plants or noxious weeds in yard waste
• Follow seasonal collection windows (April–November)
• Use only biodegradable bags or open barrels
• Participate in community composting programs when possible Violations may result in code enforcement actions or fines. For more information on state regulations, visit the Massachusetts 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

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

Accessing Lexington’s transfer station for yard waste drop-off requires a valid resident permit, which can be obtained online or at the DPW office. Permits are issued annually and must be displayed on your vehicle. Commercial landscapers must register separately and pay applicable fees. The transfer station enforces:

• Proof of residency (driver’s license or utility bill)
• Annual permit fee (typically $35 for residents)
• Commercial drop-off fee schedule (varies by load size)
• Hours of operation: Monday–Saturday, 7:00 AM–3:30 PM
• Prohibition of non-yard waste materials (e.g., construction debris, household trash) Residents should review the Lexington Transfer Station Guidelines for a full list of accepted materials and permit application instructions.

Department of Public Works
1625 Massachusetts Ave, Lexington, MA 02420
Phone: (781) 862-0500
Official Website: Department of Public Works

Prohibited Materials and Proper Yard Waste Handling in Lexington

Lexington’s yard waste program prohibits the inclusion of certain materials to protect public health and comply with state landfill bans. Residents must not place the following in yard waste:

• Plastic bags, flower pots, or garden hoses
• Rocks, soil, or sod
• Large branches (over 3 inches in diameter)
• Animal waste or food scraps
• Treated or painted wood Improper disposal can result in contamination fees or rejected loads at the transfer station. For hazardous or non-accepted materials, consult the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program or the EPA Region 1 guidelines for safe disposal options.

Department of Public Works
1625 Massachusetts Ave, Lexington, MA 02420
Phone: (781) 862-0500
Official Website: Department of Public Works

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Lexington, MA?

• Lexington Center: Historic homes and narrow streets require careful scheduling for yard waste pickup. Residents often use paper bags due to limited curb space and participate in community composting initiatives.
• Follen Heights: Suburban layout with larger lots allows for easy curbside collection and on-site composting. Driveway access is generally straightforward for transfer station drop-offs.
• Hastings: Multi-family residences and townhouses may have shared collection points. Coordination with property management is recommended for bulk yard waste removal.
• Manor: Tree-lined streets and older properties may generate significant leaf and branch debris in autumn. Residents should monitor collection schedules closely during peak seasons.
• Munroe Hill: Sloped lots and limited street parking can complicate access for collection vehicles. Early placement of yard waste is advised to ensure timely pickup.
• Estabrook: Newer developments with HOA guidelines may have additional restrictions on yard waste container types and placement. Residents should confirm rules with their association.
• Five Fields: Modern homes with expansive yards often require multiple bags or barrels for seasonal cleanups. Transfer station access is convenient via nearby main roads.