A reminder: Changes are coming to Ottawa this fall. Starting Monday, September 30, residents receiving curbside waste collection will be allowed to leave up to 3 items out for collection. For more information, visit ottawa.ca/garbage.
Tips and tools for adapting to the new three-item garbage limit
· Not sure which bin something goes in? It can be hard to keep track. The Waste Explorer makes it easy. Search any item and it will tell you how to properly dispose of it.
· Download the Ottawa Collection Calendar app today for collection reminders, waste reduction tips and more.
· Visit Ottawa.ca/garbage for more insight into how you can reduce the amount of garbage you send to landfill.
· Are you new to Ottawa or find yourself needing a new blue, green or black bin? You can request one here. The City provides one of each for free and will deliver it to your home.
· Recycling and composting are easy things you can do to help the environment.
· Any useable items you no longer want can also find a new home in your local “buy-nothing” groups or be donated to local charities.
Enforcement
· We know it can take time to adjust to change. The new garbage limit is not meant to punish people.
· The City will focus on educating residents first. For the small number of residents who consistently exceed the garbage limit, a waste inspector may visit to make sure the household is aware of the new limit and to offer them educational materials.
· Ticketing may result if the limit continues to be exceeded even after repeated efforts to address the issue with education.
Illegal Dumping
Illegal dumping hurts the environment, parks, local businesses, and your neighbours. If you spot illegal dumping, report it by calling 3-1-1.
Yellow Bag Program – Change in date
As part of this policy implementation plan’s approval, the Yellow Bag Program, which was originally established for small businesses, will be expanded for residential use. Curbside residents who may exceed the three-item garbage limit on occasion can purchase yellow bags across the City at participating locations in packages of four for $17.60. This accommodation was approved by Council in May 2024 to offer flexibility to residential households who may exceed the garbage limit on occasion.
The City is working on an updated schedule for the delivery of yellow bags to distributers and an expanded list of locations where they will be sold, which is now expected in early October. A communications reminder will be shared in advance of this roll out.
