Nantucket Waste 101

What to Know About Trash and Recycling on Nantucket

At Fisher Real Estate, we often get questions from renters and homeowners about how to properly dispose of trash and recycling on Nantucket. With the island’s commitment to sustainability, following local waste regulations isn’t just good etiquette—it’s required, even when you are a tenant for the week. Here’s what you need to know to keep your property (and Nantucket) clean and green.

Recycling Is Mandatory
On Nantucket, recycling isn’t optional. All residents, renters, and businesses are required to sort their waste carefully. The island operates a unique system that depends on clear bagging and specific separation of materials. Here’s how it works:

How to Sort Your Trash and Recycling on Nantucket

Glass:
These should be cleaned, separated from other materials, and placed in clear plastic bags.

Plastic, and Tin:
These should be cleaned, separated from other materials, and placed in clear plastic bags.

Cardboard:
Break down boxes and stack them separately—no need for bags, but be sure it’s flattened and bundled neatly. Pizza boxes can not be recycled, include these with your food waste and non-recyclable trash.

Newspaper:
Place all newspaper in a separate clear plastic bag from other recyclables.

Food Waste & Non-Recyclable Trash:
Use clear plastic bags for anything that can’t be recycled. Food waste is a large part of Nantucket’s composting efforts, so keep it separate from other trash whenever possible.

Where to Bring Your Trash and Recycling

Nantucket vacation rentals have scheduled trash service, so this does not apply to tenants here for the week. However, if you are a homeowner and don’t have scheduled trash and recycling service, Nantucket makes it easy for both residents and businesses to dispose of waste:

Citizen Drop-Off Area:
Located at the Nantucket landfill off Madaket Road, this free service is available to all residents and visitors for household waste and recyclables.

Commercial Drop-Off Area:
For businesses, the Town provides a separate commercial disposal area at the same site.

Take-It-or-Leave-It (TIOLI): 

This program allows residents to drop off reusable items and browse for items others have left. 

Helpful Tip for Renters
If you’re renting a home through Fisher Real Estate, check with your property manager or landlord about the specific pickup days or drop-off instructions for your rental.

Nantucket is a small island with limited space and resources. By following these trash and recycling rules, you’re helping to reduce landfill waste, support local composting initiatives, and keep the island beautiful for generations to come. For more island tips and guides, check out the Fisher Real Estate Blog or contact our team. We’re happy to help you make the most of your time on Nantucket—while keeping it clean!