Bottle & can return locations in Vermont

Vermont has these deposits:

• At least 5¢ for each covered can or bottle
• 15¢ for liquor bottles bigger than 50 ml

These drinks are covered:

• Beer and malt drinks
• Soda and other drinks with bubbles
• Soda water and mineral water
• Wine coolers (mixed wine drinks)
• Liquor and ready-to-drink cocktails

Not covered: drinks without bubbles, like plain water, juice and sports drinks, and regular wine.

The law does not set a daily limit per person. Places that take returns must do so for at least 40 hours a week during their normal hours. Call ahead if you have a big load.

Yes, in most cases. A store must take back labeled empties of the kinds, sizes and brands it sells, and pay the deposit. It can skip this only if the state approves, because a redemption center nearby serves the public. Vermont DEC keeps a list of these excused stores. Any store can say no to containers that are dirty, broken or not labeled for Vermont.

Vermont's bottle bill (10 V.S.A. chapter 53, §§ 1521 to 1530). The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) runs it.

Read the full law