Public Works Department - Frequently Asked Questions

How do I dispose of metal items such as refrigerators, swing sets, lawnmowers, barbecue grills, etc?

Ans. Metal items are picked up by the Town’s refuse contractor on a weekly basis on Thursdays. Residents must call Trash-Away, Inc., prior to Thursday, at 860-225-1206, and place the items at the curb side Wednesday evening for the Thursday date of collection specified by Trash-Away. (Note: Doors from refrigerators must be removed prior to placing them by the curb) Residents can also bring metal items directly to the Town’s Recycling Area located at 9 Town Farm Lane and dispose the items by placing them in the metal recycling bin.

How do I get rid of a propane tank?

Ans. Propane tanks can be brought by residents to the Town’s Recycling Area located at 9 Town Farm Lane, Berlin.

When is the Recycling Area open to the public?

Ans. 7:15 am to 3:15 pm from Monday through Friday. Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

How do I dispose of my TV?

Ans.  The Town’s Recycling Area now has a "Green Monster" dumpster for electronics.

Does the Town pick up brush or lumber placed on the curbside as part of the weekly refuse collection?

Ans. Trash Away will schedule a pick-up of brush if it is tied up in  bundles no longer than 4 feet and not weighing more than 60 lbs..  Lumber must be taken to the New Britain Landfill on Deming Road.

How do I get rid of a sleeper sofa (or any burnable furniture and mattresses)?

Ans. You must separate the metal springs from the burnable part of the sofa, and schedule a pick-up (of any furniture) by Trash Away at 860-225-1206. 

Does the Town pick up automobile parts?

Ans. No.

How do I get rid of cans containing paints?

Ans. Cans containing latex paints can be left open so that the paint solidifies (add kitty litter, if needed). When it reaches this state the can (with the cover off) can be placed in the regular trash.

Cans containing oil based paints can be disposed by bringing them to the Household Hazardous Collection Site on the day that any of the member Towns of Tunxis Recycling schedule a Hazardous Waste collection. For more information regarding the schedule please contact Tunxis Recycling at 860-585-0419 or 860-225-9811.

Can I obtain a recycling bin?

Ans. Yes, at the Public Works Office (Rm 8) Town Hall, call 860-828-7022  if you have questions.