Plan Your Wachusett Recycling Center Visit: Hours, Fees, Special Events & Accepted Items
The Wachusett Watershed Regional Recycling Center at 131 Raymond Huntington Highway, West Boylston, MA 01583 serves residents of seven Wachusett communities with recycling, reuse, bulky-item disposal and special collection programs.
The center does not operate on daily municipal transfer-station hours. Public hours vary by season, and special events such as household hazardous products, latex paint and confidential shredding have their own dates and rules.
Fast answer
The Wachusett Watershed Regional Recycling Center is open only to residents of Boylston, Holden, Paxton, Princeton, Rutland, Sterling and West Boylston for normal drop-off. Bring ID and stop at Check-In even if you are only browsing the reuse area.
During April through October, regular public hours are Tuesday 9–11 a.m., Thursday 4–6 p.m., and the first and third Saturday 9 a.m.–noon. Winter hours change beginning in November.
On this page
Wachusett Watershed Regional Recycling Center Overview
Wachusett Earthday Inc., a nonprofit organization, operates the regional center in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation and the seven Wachusett member towns.
The center is different from a traditional municipal transfer station. It combines recycling, reuse, paid disposal of selected difficult items, a reuse building, seasonal special collections and community-resource programs.
Recycle
Residents can bring cardboard, mixed containers, mixed paper, scrap metal, electronics, appliances, batteries, bulbs, rigid plastics, clean Styrofoam and other listed materials.
Reuse
Usable household items, books, décor, toys, sporting goods, textiles, craft supplies and other accepted materials may be placed into the reuse system rather than discarded.
Special collection
Latex paint, household hazardous products and confidential documents follow specific event dates rather than ordinary open hours.
Who Can Use the Wachusett Recycling Center?
Normal public drop-off is restricted to residents of the seven participating Wachusett communities:
Boylston
Residents may use the regional recycling center during public hours.
Holden
Residents are part of the regional service area.
Paxton
Residents are included in the seven-town partnership.
Princeton
Residents may use normal drop-off and scheduled special collections.
Rutland
Residents are included in the regional program.
Sterling & West Boylston
Both communities participate in the regional recycling-center service.
Bring ID
Wachusett Earthday asks visitors to have identification ready at Check-In. Everyone must stop at Check-In, including people who are visiting only to browse reusable items.
Teacher or nonprofit outside the seven towns?
Teachers, librarians and nonprofit/community organizations from outside the member towns may be allowed to obtain reusable materials, but they cannot use the center as an ordinary disposal site. Contact Wachusett Earthday in advance for arrangements.
Wachusett Recycling Center Hours for 2026
The center uses different summer and winter schedules. Saturday service is only on the first and third Saturday of the month during regular public operations.
| Season | Tuesday | Thursday | Saturday |
|---|---|---|---|
| April-October | 9:00-11:00 a.m. | 4:00-6:00 p.m. | 1st & 3rd Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-noon |
| November-March | 10:00 a.m.-noon | 2:00-4:00 p.m. | 1st & 3rd Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-noon |
Current schedule transition
Through October 2026, summer hours apply. Beginning in November, Tuesday moves to 10 a.m.–noon and Thursday moves to 2–4 p.m.; first/third Saturday hours remain 9 a.m.–noon.
Weather and Staffing Closures
The operator specifically warns that scheduled hours can change with little or no notice when weather or staffing makes operation unsafe.
Extreme temperatures
The center says it may not open when the “feels like” temperature is in the single digits or above 95°F.
Snow and thunderstorms
Operations may close if the site has not been plowed, snow begins accumulating during public hours or thunderstorms create unsafe conditions.
Check before packing the vehicle
Because the site relies heavily on volunteers, insufficient staffing can also cause an unexpected schedule change. Check the official website or call 978-464-2854 before a weather-sensitive or large-load trip.
Remaining Wachusett Recycling Special Events in 2026
As of September 30, 2026, three important scheduled collection dates remain.
| Date | Event | Hours | Important rule |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 3, 2026 | Latex Paint Collection | 9 a.m.-noon | Latex, acrylic and water-based non-alkyd paint in original readable containers. |
| October 17, 2026 | Confidential Document Shredding | 9 a.m.-noon | First two boxes free; additional boxes $2 each. |
| October 17, 2026 | Furniture Drive | 9 a.m.-noon or until truck fills | Accepted reusable furniture may be free through the furniture-bank truck; rejected items may still have center fees. |
| October 24, 2026 | Household Hazardous Products | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. | HHP only; the rest of the center and ReUse Building are closed. |
HHP Day is not a normal recycling day
On October 24, the center is open specifically for household hazardous products. Do not plan a regular reuse, furniture, recycling or shopping trip during that event.
What the Wachusett Recycling Center Accepts
The center accepts a much broader range of materials than a normal curbside recycling cart. Some are free, while others require fees to cover transportation, processing and disposal.
Recycling streams
- Flattened corrugated cardboard
- Mixed containers: plastics #1-#7, metal and glass
- Mixed paper and shredded paper
- Clean white #6 packing Styrofoam
- Scrap metal
Electronics
- Computers
- Laptops and monitors
- Televisions
- Printers and office equipment
- Cables and small electronics
Household goods
- Furniture
- Mattresses and box springs
- Appliances
- Sports equipment
- Baby items
- Luggage
Special recycling
- Household batteries
- Fluorescent and LED bulbs
- Mercury thermostats and thermometers
- Fire extinguishers
- Propane cylinders
- Tires
Reuse materials
- Books
- Craft supplies
- Toys and games
- Textiles
- Home medical-assistive equipment
- Reusable household goods
Home-project material
- Doors and windows
- Tile
- Wallboard
- Wood
- Bricks and concrete
- Selected fixtures
Current Wachusett Recycling Center Fees
The operator updated its public fee information in July 2026. Prices can change with market and disposal costs, and volunteers at Check-In retain discretion when size or volume varies.
| Item | Current published fee | Planning note |
|---|---|---|
| Countertop / small appliances | $3 | Examples include microwave, toaster, air fryer and similar appliances. |
| Large washer/dryer/stove/water heater/dishwasher | $5 | Refrigerant appliances have different rates. |
| Full-size refrigerator / freezer | $20 | Refrigerant-containing appliance. |
| Dehumidifier / AC / dorm fridge / wine fridge | $15 | Medium refrigerant appliance. |
| Television | $25 | Published regardless of size. |
| Laptop / monitor / large printer | $5 | Monitor 25 inches or larger is $10. |
| Small office electronics | $2 | Includes tower computer, tablet, keyboard and similar listed devices. |
| Small household batteries | Free | Small quantity of alkaline/rechargeable batteries including lithium-ion. |
| 12V lead-acid battery | $3 | Includes car, marine and similar listed batteries. |
| Twin mattress / box spring | $30 | Each item priced individually. |
| Full / queen mattress or box spring | $35 | Each piece is a separate item. |
| King mattress or box spring | $40 | Each piece is priced separately. |
| Passenger tire up to 19 inches | $7 | With or without rim. |
| 20-lb propane tank | $4 | Full or empty. |
| Fire extinguisher | $10 | Use designated drop-off route. |
| Scrap metal | Free | Separate metal so staff can assess the load accurately. |
Why the center charges fees
Wachusett Earthday explains that collection, storage, transport and downstream processing all cost money. Its July 2026 update says pay-as-you-throw drop-off charges are the center’s largest revenue source, with member-town dues covering only part of operating costs.
Electronics and Appliance Recycling
Electronics are accepted during regular public hours, but they are not all priced the same.
Small electronics
Cell phones, cameras, small game devices and similar handheld electronics are generally listed at $1.
Office electronics
Tower computers, small printers and tablets are generally $2; laptops, standard monitors, larger printers and similar medium office electronics are generally $5.
Televisions
Televisions are currently listed at $25 regardless of size. Large monitors 25 inches or larger are listed at $10.
Protect personal data
Before recycling a computer, phone or tablet, back up files you need, sign out of accounts, remove removable media and erase personal data where practical.
Batteries, Bulbs and Mercury-Containing Items
The center accepts several materials that should not enter ordinary trash or curbside recycling.
Household batteries
A small quantity of mixed alkaline and rechargeable batteries, including lithium-ion, is currently free. A bucket-sized quantity is listed at $20.
Bulbs and tubes
Fluorescent and LED bulbs/tubes plus string lights are listed as free drop-off.
Mercury products
Mercury switches, thermostats and thermometers are currently listed as free.
Broken fluorescent bulbs are different
The center’s current list says broken fluorescent bulbs or tubes are not accepted. Its guidance directs residents to bag them and use household trash instead.
Mattresses, Furniture and Bulky Household Items
Mattresses and furniture are accepted, but many pieces have per-item charges. Reusable furniture may sometimes be redirected to reuse or community-service partners instead of disposal.
| Item | Current fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Crib mattress | $10 | Current published rate. |
| Twin mattress / box spring | $30 each | Mattress and box spring priced separately. |
| Full / queen mattress / box spring | $35 each | Each piece priced separately. |
| King mattress / box spring | $40 each | Each piece priced separately. |
| Standard couch / loveseat | $20 | Not sectional, recliner or sleeper furniture. |
| Reclining or sleeper furniture | $35 | Includes reclining/sleeper couch, loveseat or chair. |
| Sectional | Variable | Each section is evaluated and priced separately. |
October 17 furniture-drive opportunity
On October 17, 2026, the Donations Clearinghouse Furniture Bank plans to be onsite from 9 a.m.–noon, or until its truck fills. If the furniture bank accepts your usable furniture or household goods, the drop-off can be free; material it cannot use may still be subject to normal center fees.
Household Construction and Demolition Debris
Unlike many small recycling centers, Wachusett accepts selected household project and renovation debris for a fee.
| Material | Current pricing | Important rule |
|---|---|---|
| Tile, shingles, wallboard, windows, carpet/pad, wood | $70 per cubic yard | Load is assessed by volume. |
| Concrete, bricks, asphalt, asphalt shingles | $70 per cubic yard + heavy-material surcharge | Current published minimum surcharge is $10. |
| Interior wood door / pallet | $2 | Current individual-item rate. |
| Exterior wood door | $5 | Current individual-item rate. |
| Toilet / single sink / single vanity | $5 | Current individual-item rate. |
| Tub | $10 | Current individual-item rate. |
Pack the load so it can be evaluated
The center does not use a scale for these household project loads. Volunteers assess volume and heavy-material surcharges at Check-In, so keep metal and lower-fee material separable where practical.
ReUse Building and Free Reuse Items
Reuse is a major part of the center’s mission. Usable material may be offered back to residents, schools or partner organizations rather than immediately entering a recycling or disposal stream.
Examples of reusable items
- Seasonal décor
- Arts and crafts materials
- School supplies
- Fabric, yarn and sewing supplies
- Toys, puzzles and games
- Books and media
- Home improvement and hardware items
- Eyeglasses
Textiles and household goods
- Clean, dry textiles
- Clothing
- Shoes and belts
- Home linens
- Home assistive equipment
- Bicycles
- Reusable containers with lids
ReUse Building drop-off limit
The center currently asks residents dropping items at the ReUse Building to limit the drop-off to two boxes; the boxes must close and each must weigh 30 pounds or less.
Items the Wachusett Center Does Not Accept
The facility is not a general household transfer station, so some common materials belong elsewhere.
Ordinary household waste
- Household garbage
- Food waste
- Yard waste
- Creosoted wood
Problem plastics / foam
- Sheet plastic
- Plastic shopping bags
- Dirty Styrofoam
- Food/drink Styrofoam
Other excluded items
- Smoke detectors
- Incandescent light bulbs
- Broken fluorescent bulbs/tubes
- Audio cassette / VCR tapes
- Large equipment / loader tires
Hazardous products are not normal drop-off items
Chemicals, pesticides, spray paints and similar household hazardous products are accepted only during designated HHP special-collection events unless another authorized facility is used.
Payment Methods and Check-In
Every visitor must stop at Check-In before unloading or browsing. This lets volunteers verify residency, track town participation, identify the correct unloading area and assess applicable fees.
Regular center payments
The center currently accepts cash, checks and credit cards at Check-In for fee-based materials.
HHP event payments
The 2026 HHP event information also lists Apple Pay and Google Pay in addition to cash, check and credit.
Pricing may vary by volume
The center’s current fee page states that volunteers at Check-In may set pricing based on the size or volume of a load when a fixed item price does not accurately describe the material.
Household Hazardous Products Event — October 24, 2026
The remaining 2026 HHP collection is scheduled for Saturday, October 24 from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. and is restricted to residents of the seven participating towns.
| HHP load | 2026 published price |
|---|---|
| Up to 3 gallons or 6 pounds | $35 |
| Over 3 to 10 gallons or over 6 to 20 pounds | $65 |
| Over 10 to 25 gallons or over 20 to 50 pounds | $105 |
More than 25 gallons or 50 pounds?
Contact the center before the event. The operator asks residents with larger quantities or especially dangerous materials to describe what they have, how much, and the container sizes so staff can advise on safe packing and scheduling.
HHP preparation
- Do not mix chemicals.
- Keep material in the original container where possible.
- Pack items so staff can assess and count them at Check-In.
- All containers are assumed full for pricing.
- Place hazardous materials in the trunk, pickup bed or rear cargo area.
Before-You-Go Checklist
Confirm your town
Normal drop-off is for residents of Boylston, Holden, Paxton, Princeton, Rutland, Sterling and West Boylston.
Bring ID
Have identification ready for Check-In.
Check seasonal hours
April-October and November-March have different Tuesday and Thursday schedules.
Check which Saturday it is
Normal Saturday service is generally only the first and third Saturday of the month.
Check weather before leaving
Snow, thunderstorms, extreme heat/cold or staffing shortages can cause a last-minute closure.
Sort the vehicle
Keep cardboard, mixed containers, paper, metal, electronics, batteries, bulky items and reuse donations separate where practical.
Check the fee
Current prices vary widely by item and can change. Use the center’s online fee search for the latest amount.
Use the right special event
Latex paint, household hazardous products and confidential shredding each have specific scheduled dates.
Stop at Check-In
Do not unload before checking in with the site staff or volunteers.
Wachusett Recycling Center Map and Directions
The facility is at 131 Raymond Huntington Highway, West Boylston, MA 01583. The road was formerly known as Legg Road, so older directions or GPS references may still use that name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Wachusett Watershed Regional Recycling Center?
The center is at 131 Raymond Huntington Highway, West Boylston, MA 01583.
Who can use the Wachusett Recycling Center?
Normal public drop-off is for residents of Boylston, Holden, Paxton, Princeton, Rutland, Sterling and West Boylston. Bring ID when visiting.
What are the Wachusett Recycling Center summer hours?
April through October: Tuesday 9-11 a.m., Thursday 4-6 p.m., and the first and third Saturday from 9 a.m.-noon.
What are the winter hours?
November through March: Tuesday 10 a.m.-noon, Thursday 2-4 p.m., and the first and third Saturday from 9 a.m.-noon.
Can the center close because of weather?
Yes. The operator says extreme temperatures, snow, thunderstorms or insufficient staffing can cause schedule changes, sometimes with little notice.
Does the Wachusett Recycling Center accept TVs?
Yes. The current published fee is $25 per television regardless of size.
Does the center accept mattresses?
Yes. Current fees range from $10 for a crib mattress to $40 for a king mattress or box spring, depending on size.
Can I recycle lithium-ion batteries?
Yes. A small quantity of mixed alkaline and rechargeable household batteries, including lithium-ion batteries, is currently accepted free.
Does the center accept household hazardous waste every week?
No. Household hazardous products such as chemicals, pesticides and spray paints are accepted only on designated HHP special-collection days.
When is the next 2026 hazardous-waste event?
The remaining 2026 Household Hazardous Products event is Saturday, October 24 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. The rest of the recycling center is closed during that HHP-only event.
When is the remaining 2026 latex-paint collection?
The remaining scheduled latex-paint collection is Saturday, October 3, 2026 from 9 a.m.-noon.
When is the remaining 2026 document-shredding event?
The remaining confidential-document shredding event is Saturday, October 17, 2026 from 9 a.m.-noon. The first two boxes are free and additional boxes cost $2 each.
Can I bring construction debris?
Selected household project and demolition debris is accepted for a fee. Current general pricing is $70 per cubic yard, with a surcharge for heavy materials such as concrete and brick.
Can I bring household garbage or yard waste?
No. Wachusett Earthday states that it is not a transfer station and cannot accept household garbage, yard waste, food waste or creosoted wood.
What payment methods are accepted?
The center accepts cash, check and credit cards at Check-In. The 2026 HHP event also lists Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Do I have to stop at Check-In?
Yes. All visitors must stop at Check-In, including people who are only visiting the reuse area.
Can teachers or nonprofits outside the seven towns use the site?
They may be allowed to obtain reusable materials by arrangement, but they cannot use the center as a normal disposal site. Contact Wachusett Earthday in advance.
What is the Wachusett Recycling Center phone number?
The current published phone number is 978-464-2854.
Official and primary sources checked for this update
This independent guide was refreshed primarily against Wachusett Earthday’s current 2026 pages, with municipal and statewide recycling references used as supporting confirmation.
- Wachusett Earthday — Official Home Page
- Wachusett Earthday — 2026 Hours
- Wachusett Earthday — Who Can Use the Center?
- Wachusett Earthday — Items We Accept
- Wachusett Earthday — July 2026 Drop-Off Fees
- Wachusett Earthday — 2026 Special Collections
- Wachusett Earthday — Directions
- Recycle Smart Massachusetts — Facility Listing