What to Do with Used Sharps in Massachusetts

Massachusetts residents must take sealed containers of used sharps to a drop-off site or arrange a mail-back service. Please check this page for disposal options in your area. If there is no disposal program near you, contact your local health department or solid waste department.

Step 1 — Put used sharps in a strong, plastic container

Put used sharps in a strong, plastic container.

Have a needle clipper? When the needle clipper is full, it can be disposed of according to your state or local regulations. More information can be found here.

Step 2 — Use the Zip Code search at the top of this page to locate container disposal options near you.


Step 3 — Never throw used sharps - loose or in a plastic container - into the trash or toilet, and never recycle.

Sharps that retract after use, or are very small, should be disposed of like all other sharps.

Most cities and towns in Massachusetts have disposal locations. Call the program to confirm if there are any container requirements, disposal fees or residency restrictions. Click here for information on pharmaceutical company takeback programs.

See disposal locations

State Data Last Modified: 09/20/2023