Junk removal costs in Worcester

Worcester's regular trash pickup takes one thing: city yellow bags. Only trash in those bags gets collected, and a big item left at the curb is a violation of city ordinance. So your old couch needs a plan before it leaves the house.

The city's plan is the Residential Drop-Off Center, by appointment. Slots run 30 minutes, on Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and you can book as close as 48 hours ahead, online or through 311. Bring proof that you live in Worcester, like a current-year tax or water bill, and pay by check or cash. They don't make change. Commercial vehicles aren't allowed. The center takes a long list of things beyond furniture: rolled rugs, TVs and computers, tires, a push mower with the gas and oil drained, an oil tank opened at both ends, and a swing set with the concrete knocked off and the frame taken apart.

Can't haul it yourself? The city's recycling contractor, Casella, does curbside bulk pickup for buildings with up to six units, billed per item and paid when you book. There's no cap on items per appointment, and you can also hire another licensed hauler.

Then there's the calendar. The drop-off center is typically open only April through November, so a cleanout in January means a paid pickup or a wait for spring.