Chatham Junk Removal Services

Our Junk Removal Process

Contact Chatham's Department of Public Works for Bulk Item Disposal & Transfer Station Requirements

Chatham’s municipal waste management system is anchored by the Transfer Station, which operates year-round with seasonal hours and requires a resident permit or sticker for access. Proof of residency is mandatory, and fees may apply for certain items or services. Accepted materials include household trash, recyclables (cardboard, metals, plastics, glass), and select bulk items, while prohibited materials encompass hazardous waste, tires, and electronics. Bulk item disposal is available through scheduled curbside pickups or by appointment, with residents responsible for advance notification and proper preparation—such as mattress wrapping or appliance certification. Special programs include electronics recycling events, household hazardous waste days, textile recycling, and seasonal cleanups. Plastic bags are strictly prohibited per the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. For detailed information, contact:

Chatham Department of Public Works
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633
Phone: (508) 945-5155
Website: https://www.chatham-ma.gov/265/Public-Works

Understanding Massachusetts Waste Regulations & Chatham's Recycling Requirements for Junk Removal

Massachusetts enforces comprehensive waste regulations through the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, including bans on the disposal of electronics, appliances, tires, yard waste, and cathode ray tubes in landfills. Electronics such as TVs, computers, and monitors must be recycled at certified facilities, while appliances containing refrigerants (refrigerators, air conditioners, freezers) require CFC recovery by certified technicians. Tires must be brought to proper disposal facilities, and construction materials like concrete, asphalt, brick, metal, and clean wood must be separated for recycling. Chatham implements these requirements through its Transfer Station and certified recycling programs, ensuring resident compliance and environmental protection. Residents are encouraged to consult municipal resources for up-to-date recycling requirements and to participate in special collection events for regulated materials.

Chatham Board of Health Guidelines for Safe & Sanitary Junk Removal Operations

The Chatham Board of Health emphasizes public health and safety in all junk removal activities. Improperly managed waste can attract pests such as rodents and insects, create unsanitary conditions, and pose injury risks from sharp or unstable materials. Staging of junk for collection should occur no more than 24-48 hours in advance, with items protected from weather and securely contained to prevent scattering. Residents must coordinate with municipal collection schedules and avoid placing waste in public areas outside designated times. Illegal dumping should be reported to Code Enforcement or the Health Department for prompt investigation. For sanitation oversight and guidance, contact:

Chatham Board of Health
261 George Ryder Road, Chatham, MA 02633
Phone: (508) 945-2793
Website: https://www.chatham-ma.gov/365/Board-of-Health

Hazardous Waste & Electronics Disposal Regulations in Chatham

Proper identification and disposal of household hazardous waste is essential for community safety and environmental stewardship. Hazardous materials include paints, solvents, pesticides, herbicides, automotive fluids, cleaning chemicals, batteries, fluorescent bulbs, mercury devices, propane tanks, and compressed gas cylinders. Chatham offers scheduled hazardous waste collection events and participates in regional programs, requiring materials to be delivered in original containers with clear labeling. Universal waste—such as batteries, mercury thermostats, fluorescent lamps, and electronics—must be handled by certified recyclers. Hazardous materials are strictly prohibited from regular trash, curbside pickup, and the Transfer Station. Non-compliance may result in penalties and environmental liability. For state-level guidance, visit the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection or U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 1.

Chatham Building Department Requirements for Construction & Demolition Debris

Construction and demolition debris management in Chatham is regulated by the Building Department, which oversees permits for major cleanouts, renovations, and demolition projects. Contractors and property owners must comply with Massachusetts requirements for separating and recycling materials such as concrete, asphalt, brick, metal, and clean wood, and must document disposal at certified facilities. Hazardous materials assessments, including for asbestos and lead paint in older buildings, are mandatory prior to demolition. Placement of dumpsters in public rights-of-way requires temporary obstruction permits, and debris management plans may be necessary for large projects. For permitting and compliance information, contact:

Chatham Building Division
261 George Ryder Road, Chatham, MA 02633
Phone: (508) 945-5168
Website: https://www.chatham-ma.gov/174/Building-Division

Protecting Chatham's Environment Through Proper Waste Stream Management & Illegal Dumping Prevention

Chatham’s unique environment, including Massachusetts Bay, Cape Cod Bay, rivers, ponds, wetlands, and conservation areas, requires vigilant waste management to prevent pollution and habitat degradation. Illegal dumping is subject to penalties under local ordinances and state law, with significant remediation costs and environmental liability. Residents and contractors must prevent debris from entering storm drains, in compliance with MS4 stormwater regulations under the Massachusetts Clean Waters Act (M.G.L. c. 21) and MassDEP Stormwater Management Standards. Disposal near wetlands or protected areas requires coordination with the Conservation Commission under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40). To report illegal dumping or for environmental compliance questions, contact:

Chatham Department of Public Works
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633
Phone: (508) 945-5155
Website: https://www.chatham-ma.gov/265/Public-Works

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Chatham, MA?

Junk removal needs in Chatham vary by neighborhood, reflecting differences in housing stock, infrastructure, and environmental sensitivity. Historic districts such as Old Village feature older homes that may require lead or asbestos assessment during cleanouts. Modern developments in West Chatham and South Chatham offer larger lots and easier access for bulk item removal. Multi-family properties and senior communities in North Chatham often generate estate cleanouts and require special scheduling. Downtown and Main Street areas present challenges with narrow streets, limited parking, and alley access, while riverfront and floodplain neighborhoods near Oyster Pond and Mill Pond demand careful waste handling to prevent water contamination. Conservation Commission areas and properties near drinking water sources require strict compliance with environmental regulations. Municipal services, collection schedules, and fee structures may differ by area, so residents should consult the Department of Public Works for neighborhood-specific guidance.

Chatham Municipal Ordinances for Commercial Junk Removal Operations & Equipment Use

Commercial junk removal in Chatham is governed by municipal ordinances that set standards for hours of operation, equipment use, and licensing. Permitted hours are 7:00 AM-7:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM-6:00 PM on Saturdays, with Sunday operations often restricted or prohibited—verify with local bylaws. Commercial operators must be licensed and registered with the Town Clerk, maintain appropriate insurance and bonding, and obtain right-of-way permits for large-scale operations or dumpster placement. Equipment operation is subject to noise restrictions and safety standards. Holiday restrictions typically follow Sunday rules. For questions about commercial licensing or operational requirements, contact:

Chatham Department of Public Works
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633
Phone: (508) 945-5155
Website: https://www.chatham-ma.gov/265/Public-Works

Chatham’s commitment to regulatory compliance, public health, and environmental stewardship ensures that junk removal services protect both residents and the natural resources that define the community. For additional information, consult the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 1.