Massachusetts Laws on Bottles

Massachusetts' bottle law provides consumers incentive to return cans and bottles for a five cent refund.

The 1983 Massachusetts bottle law requires a deposit on containers purchased holding certain beverages. Almost anyone returning discarded containers to a store or redemption center will be refunded the deposit, creating an incentive to fight litter.

Deposit Refund System

Consumers must pay a five cent deposit on every qualifying glass, plastic or metallic container purchased, according to the Container Recycling Institute. The deposit is refunded when the bottle is returned to the store. MSNBC reports that if the container is not returned, however, the funds eventually go to the state.

Coverages and Exemptions

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) states the law applies to soda, mineral water, malt drinks and beer. The site also notes juice and dairy products are exempt, as are other alcoholic beverages and containers larger than two gallons.

Considerations

Unlike special redemption centers, supermarkets and package stores may impose a daily limit of 120 containers per the MassDEP. Package stores must accept returns from minors if they also allow them to purchase non-alcoholic items such as candy.

Warning

Attempting to redeem a container you know (or should have known) was manufactured outside Massachusetts may result in a $100 fine per container or $25,000 per batch tendered (as of 2010), whichever is greater, according to the MassDEP.

References

• Container Recycling Institute: Bottle Bill Resource Guide
• MSNBC: States say more bottle deposits make cents
• MassDEP: Guide for Consumers to the Bottle Bill

Resources

• Massachusetts Legislature: General Laws Ch. 94-322