Recycling

FAQs (frequently asked questions)

• What can go into my Recycling cart?

  Recycle BC has partnered with the Town of Comox for processing the curbside recycle cart contents - they set the guidelines for what is acceptable.

  What can go into the curbside Recycle cart?

  Review the:

  • Automated Curbside Waste Collection Guide & Schedule
  • Use the Wizard tool on the Solid Waste webpage - about halfway down that webpage, look for the magnifying glass symbol called Wizard - the tool is also on the Comox Curbside App (on Apple or Google Play). 

  In general the items below are:

   

  ACCEPTED:

  • paper
    • shredded paper must be placed in a paper bag or box
  • cardboard
  • plastic (hard only)
  • metal

  NOT ACCEPTED:

  Take the items below to the Courtenay Return-It Depot:

  • glass: bottles, jars 
  • foam packaging 
  • flexible plastic such as: soft/flexible packaging such as plastic bags, plastic overwrap, crinkly plastic, stand-up and zipper lock pouches, flexible packaging with plastic seal, woven and net plastic bags and protective squishy cushion packaging.

  For Household Hazardous Waste, visit the Comox Strathcona Waste Management Centre webpage 

  Please note:

  • Do not line your cart with a plastic bag.
  • Empty and rinse containers.
  • Remove any tape, string, ribbon or other contaminants.
  • Ensure the waste is not packed too tightly in the cart as it may not fully empty into the collection truck. If that happens, it is not considered a missed collection - loosen the contents in your cart for the next collection day.  
• I cannot fit all of my recycling into my cart with the lid fully closed.

  • Stack related items together – such as yogurt containers.
  • Ensure all your cardboard is flattened - cut up larger pieces so they can stack flatter.
  • Crush, compact and compress items such as bulky plastic containers and tin cans before placing into the cart, not after...
    • Ensure the waste is not packed too tightly in the cart as it may not fully empty into the collection truck. If that happens, it is not considered a missed collection - loosen the contents in your cart for the next collection day.  
  • Store your extras and refill your recycling cart over the following collection week.
  • Drop off certain items at the Courtenay Return-IT Depot - check their website or call ahead to ensure your item is accepted there - starting December 1st 2025, they will no longer accept Scrap Metal.
  • Should you require an increase to your service level by way of an additional or larger Recycle cart please visit the Cart Changes webpage.
• What are the weight limits for the carts?

  The limits are based on the cart size, not on the cart type.

  • 360L Cart max weight limit = 332.5 lbs
  • 240L Cart max weight limit = 227.5 lbs
• My cart did not fully empty.

  • Ensure the waste is not packed too tightly in the cart as it may not fully empty into the collection truck. If that happens, it is not considered a missed collection - loosen the contents in your cart for the next collection day.  
  • Should you require an increase to your service level by way of an additional or larger Recycle cart please visit the Cart Changes webpage.
• I still have questions...

  Click the links below to explore:

  • General questions that apply to all cart services.
  • Cart Basics 
  • Cart Set Out Guidelines 
  • When is my collection day? Enter your address into the Calendar tool on our main Solid Waste webpage. 
  • What goes where? Enter the item into Wizard tool on our main Solid Waste webpage. 
  • Courtenay Return-It Depot
  • Household Hazardous Waste

  Still have a question? Please contact Comox Public Works by email at publicworks@comox.ca or phone: 250-339-5410.

  Thank you.