Curbside Collection 2024 Updates

Frequently Asked Questions about the Automated Collection

• When will the automated collection system begin?

  Automated collection of curbside carts will begin on the first collection day of January 2024.

• What is an automated waste collection system and how will the service change?

  The automated collection uses standardized wheeled carts for each residence and a collection vehicle with an automated arm that picks up the carts. Residential households within the program will be provided with three carts: one each for garbage, recycling and organics. Residents will wheel carts to the curb or collection point on collection day, and an automated truck will empty the contents.

  All waste will need to be contained inside the carts with the lids fully closed for collection. Similar to the current collection service, residents will continue to be responsible for storing, cleaning, sorting materials, and rolling carts to the collection area.

• Why is the system changing? What is the benefit?

  The overall goal of the automated collection is to provide efficient and effective service to residents. The new automated collection system will reduce the risk of worker injuries and service failures. Residents will be provided with easy to roll, durable carts that do not require lifting or dragging. Recycling will be contained in a lidded cart.

• Will I need to use the standardized carts? Can I use my existing garbage cans or existing containers?

  Automated collection requires a standardized cart that is designed to work with the mechanical arm, including a hinged lid that opens when dumped. A regular garbage receptacle cannot be picked up by the mechanical arm.

• When will we receive the carts?

  Carts will be delivered to your home in fall 2023 with an information guide on cart use within the automated collection program.

• What size will the carts be?

  Each single residential dwelling, duplex dwelling and carriage house will receive one set of the following carts:

  • 360 L Recycling cart with blue lid 
  • 360 L Organics (yard waste and food waste) with green lid
  • 120 L Garbage cart with black lid

  Homes with legal secondary suites who pay two garbage fees will receive a second smaller set:

  • 240 L Recycling cart with blue lid
  • 120 L Organics cart with green lid
  • 120 L Garbage cart with black lid
• Will I be able to request a different cart size?

  Not initially. We ask that you try out your cart size for a six-month trail period to see if it works for your household. After the trial period, there will be an option to change cart sizes. More information will be shared on the exchange process at a later date.

   
• Will I be able to request a second cart for my recycling or compost?

  The potential for additional carts has not yet been determined. Staff are analyzing whether additional carts can be incorporated into the program.

• Who will own the carts?

  The carts will be assigned to each household and will stay with the property, though they will be owned and maintained by the contractor for the duration of the collection contract. At the end of the collection contract, cart ownership will transfer to the municipality.

  Each cart will have a unique radio (RFID) tag and serial number. If you move, the carts stay with the house. General cleaning and standard care of the carts will be the resident's responsibility.

• Where will I store the carts?

  Each household can decide the best storage method for their home. It is recommended to store them in a secure location within the property. Carts should not be left at the curb overnight to avoid attracting wildlife.

• What will I do with my old containers and garbage cans?

  You should continue using your existing containers until the automated program starts in January 2024. More information will be provided closer to the launch date with suggestions for alternative uses and recycling options for your old cans.

• Will there be changes to what is accepted as organics, garbage and recycling?

  There will be no change to the accepted materials. As of January 2023, even more items are accepted as curbside recycling. Review the changes here.

• Will I be able to put out extra bags of garbage, recycling and organics?

  No, to ensure efficient and safe collection, the drivers of the collection trucks cannot exit the vehicle at individual stops, and will not be able to manually to load any additional materials. Materials will need to be fully contained inside a cart with the lid completely closed to be collected. Overflowing carts and items outside the cart will not be collected.

• Will my collection schedule change?

  Yes, garbage collection is moving to bi-weekly collection alternating with recycling, which will continue to be collected bi-weekly. Organics, including kitchen waste and yard waste, will continue to be collected weekly.  

• Will the collection schedule continue to move ahead a day after statutory holidays?

  Yes, the add-a-day schedule will continue under the automated collection program.

• Can I opt out?

  There will be no opt-out options for households that are eligible to receive curbside collection.

• How much will the new system cost?

  Staff are reviewing financial information to determine the cost associated with the different cart sizes and the impacts on the yearly cost per household. Cost information will be shared when available.