Readers asked the following questions about the town's new 3-barrel limit on trash pick-up that took effect Jan. 1:
- Can people throw out trash bags instead of barrels?
- Why were the new regulations established — what problems are they intended to solve?
Town Health Director Andrew Petty told us that the new rules require bagged trash to be placed in barrels and secured with tight-fitting with lids.
The regulations were a response to two problems, the director said.
One problem is varmint, including raccoons and sea gulls, getting into trash.
Another problem is loose trash being blown by the wind, creating litter.
The town is looking into the wholesale purchase of lids for resale to residents who need them, the director said.
The new rules were enacted by the Marblehead Board of Health on Oct. 30.
The new regulations state the barrels shall be standard size — those not exceeding 35 gallons and weighing not more than 50 pounds when filled or 65 gallon-wheeled-toters weighing not more than 50 pounds when filled.
The town will educate residents about the new barrel regulations with fliers, postings, visits and other means, the director said.
Violations are not subject to fines.
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