Wellesley Recycling And Disposal Facility
Recycling Center in Wellesley, Massachusetts
About This Location
The Wellesley Recycling & Disposal Facility (RDF) at 169 Great Plain Avenue is the town's well-known municipal drop-off, operated by Wellesley DPW and open to residents with an RDF sticker/permit. Beyond standard recycling and trash, the RDF is famous for its seasonal Reusables Area, a give-and-take space where residents leave usable items for neighbors to take for free, accepted case-by-case for large items. Styrofoam is specifically excluded from the Reusables Area and is not recyclable at the facility. Apply for an RDF sticker online, and call ext. 3345 with questions.
What Wellesley Recycling And Disposal Facility Accepts
What they do not accept
Styrofoam and wrapping paper are not recyclable at the RDF, and Styrofoam is specifically excluded from the Reusables Area. The facility handles many specialty materials in dedicated areas; confirm specific items (electronics, HHW, metals) and any fees with the DPW before hauling.
Access & restrictions
Residents only (proof may be required) · ID or proof of residency required · Walk-in (no appointment) · Wellesley residents only. An RDF sticker/permit is required and can be applied for online. For details call 781-235-7600 ext. 3345. The Reusables give-and-take Area operates on its own seasonal schedule.
Programs & events
- Reusables Area (give-and-take) — Seasonal give-and-take space where residents leave usable items for others to take free; items must be in working or easily repairable condition and large items are accepted case-by-case. Styrofoam excluded.
- Book exchange & composting — The RDF operates dedicated reuse, book-exchange, composting and metals areas per the town recycling guide.
Materials, fees and hours can change — call ahead to confirm before your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for the Wellesley RDF?
Yes. The RDF is for Wellesley residents only and requires an RDF sticker/permit, which you can apply for online. For questions, call 781-235-7600 ext. 3345.
What are the RDF hours?
The RDF is open Monday-Wednesday 7:00 AM-12:00 PM, Thursday-Saturday 7:00 AM-3:45 PM, and Sunday 10:00 AM-3:00 PM. The Reusables Area has shorter, seasonal hours, so check before relying on it.
Does the RDF take Styrofoam?
No. Styrofoam is not recyclable at the RDF and is specifically excluded from the Reusables Area; wrapping paper is also not recyclable there. For Styrofoam, look for a dedicated drop-off program elsewhere.
What is the Reusables Area?
It is the RDF's give-and-take space where residents drop off usable household items for neighbors to take for free. Items must be in working or easily repairable condition; large items are accepted case-by-case, and the area runs seasonally from spring through fall.
Last verified: October 2026. Sources: source · source · source. Spotted something wrong? Suggest a correction.
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