FAQs • Reading, MA • CivicEngage

Building Materials: Homeowners and contractors can donate good quality used and surplus building materials to Building Materials Resource Center. Save on disposal fees and earn tax deductions. Call (617) 442-2262 to schedule a pick-up. Visit the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection website for more options and information.

▼
Public Works - Rubbish & Recycling - How do I get rid of...

1. Appliances/White Goods: Call JRM at (800) 323-4285 to schedule an appliance pick-up for items like stoves, refrigerators, over the stove microwaves (built-in style), washing machines, dryers, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and water heaters. Once payment is received, no refunds are granted.

2. Asbestos: You must use a licensed asbestos removal contractor to dispose of asbestos. Check the yellow pages for licensed contractors.

Automobiles and other vehicles can be donated to an area charity for a tax deduction.

4. Batteries: Alkaline batteries manufactured after 1994 can be thrown out with the regular trash. All alkaline batteries manufactured before 1994, NiCad, button, zinc and lithium batteries should be disposed of through the of Town Reading Household Hazardous Waste Day.
To recycle rechargeable batteries, call (800) 8-BATTERY or visit Call2Recycle

5. Bicycles: Bikes not Bombs, a non-profit organization located in Roxbury, is working to promote community development and alternative transportation. Donated bikes are shipped to third world countries and used locally to train young people as bicycle mechanics. Kids can also build/recondition a bike through the Earn-A-Bike program. Part of the program involves the kids participating in community service (617) 522-0222.

7. Broken: Fluorescent bulbs: Dispose of expended or broken fluorescent bulbs at the Department of Public Works Facility, 75 Newcrossing Rd. Fluorescent bulbs, including energy saving compacts, contain a small amount of mercury. If a fluorescent bulb breaks in your home, do not inhale the vapor and do not use a vacuum for cleanup. Sweep the pieces together with a brush or broom - not with your hand - and clean up bits of glass with a wet rag or towel, then place the towel and the pieces into a plastic bag. Fluorescent bulbs emit no mercury unless they are broken.

8. Building Materials: Homeowners and contractors can donate good quality used and surplus building materials to Building Materials Resource Center. Save on disposal fees and earn tax deductions. Call (617) 442-2262 to schedule a pick-up. Visit the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection website for more options and information.