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1. How do I dispose of unwanted needles or syringes?

State law prohibits disposal of “sharps” (lancets, needles, etc. used to puncture the skin) in household trash. The Town has drop-off kiosks at the Robb Center (the Senior Center) and the Public Safety Building. All sharps must be in an FDA approved red sharps container, no more than 3 quarts, before being placed into the kiosk.

For more information, view our Sharps Disposal Flyer.

Sharps Disposal Flyer (PDF).

2. How do I dispose of old medications?

There is a drug collection kiosk at the Andover Public Safety Center where you can place pills. Liquids can be placed into your trash or mixed with an absorbent and then placed into your trash. Since our rubbish is sent to an incinerator, this is a safe disposal method.

3. How do I dispose of household batteries?

Most household batteries are alkaline and can be put into the trash, but some require special handling as follows:

- Button Cell Batteries - Hearing aids, watches, etc. can be deposited in specially marked containers at Town Offices, the Municipal Services Facility at 5 Campanelli Drive, and other areas of town.

- Rechargeable Batteries -Small standard size lithium & rechargeable batteries (standard sizes) can be dropped off at the Health Division Office or at the Municipal Services Facility at 5 Campanelli Drive. 

- Car Batteries - These dry cell batteries are not accepted by the Town; they can be dropped off at any local car repair establishment.

Batteries (PDF)

4. I have an old mercury thermometer to dispose of. How can I do that?

Anything containing mercury (thermostats, thermometers, mercury switches) can be delivered to the Health Division Office or at the Municipal Services Facility at 5 Campanelli Drive. Fluorescent light bulbs are not accepted. The Health Division has digital thermometers to exchange for mercury ones.

5. My trash wasn’t picked up this week. Why?

The Department of Public Works handles trash disposal. Please call 978-623-8700.

6. How do I get rid of special wastes not addressed here?

View the Public Works Department's Trash Collection Guide (PDF).