Swampscott’s automated trash and recycling pickup has been delayed and will now begin the week of August 3.

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee announced the expected change on Facebook. New recycling carts will be delivered the week of July 27, while households will continue using the town-issued 35-gallon black trash carts. Residents do not need to be present for the drop-off.

 Automated collection has become the industry standard for waste and recycling services. Under the system, a mechanical arm on the collection truck lifts and empties carts without requiring workers to leave the vehicle.

“New trucks with mechanical arms will collect town-issued carts, improving safety and efficiency,” the Solid Waste Advisory Committee wrote.

As part of the transition, the town will replace recycling bins with standardized 95-gallon carts designed for automated collection. 

“Your current recycling barrels and bins are yours to keep,” the Solid Waste Advisory Committee wrote. “Repurpose them, give them to a friend, or set them out for the town’s one-time special collection in August.”

Town Administrator Nick Connors previously said the town plans its first curbside pickup of old recycling barrels during the week of August 10.

The town also plans to move to every-other-week recycling collection in early 2027, as discussed at the last Select Board meeting.

Households that need an additional recycling or trash cart may lease one for an annual fee. Residents can fill out a request form at swampscottma.gov/trash.

Trash carts will remain unchanged, and residents will continue using their current 35-gallon town-issued carts under the new system.

All carts must be placed at the curb by 7 a.m. with no items leaning against them. The arrows on the lids should face the street, with the handles facing the house. Carts should be placed about one foot from the curb and at least three feet from mailboxes, trees and other objects.