Big changes to how we handle curbside waste collection in Waterloo Region have arrived. Residents will notice several updates to garbage, recycling, and organics pickup. Here’s everything you need to know.
New Carts Are Here
The Region has already delivered new black garbage carts and green organics carts to homes across the region. These carts use automated collection — trucks with mechanical arms lift and empty them, improving worker safety and reducing litter.
- Large black cart: holds approximately three standard bags of garbage (240L, up to 90.7 kg)
- Small black cart: holds approximately one bag (120L, up to 45.4 kg)
- Green organics cart: holds approximately 100L and 38 kg
New Collection Schedule
(Started March 3, 2026)
Here’s what to expect:
| Collection Type | Frequency |
|---|---|
| 🗑️ Garbage (black cart) | Every other week |
| 🌿 Organics (green cart) | Weekly |
| ♻️ Blue box recycling | Every other week (opposite week from garbage) |
| 🍂 Yard waste | Every other week, Spring to Fall |
| 📦 Bulky item pickup | Once a month |
⚠️ Important: Collection days have shifted to a Tuesday–Friday schedule to avoid statutory holidays and allow for make-up days. Your collection day may have changed. Check the 2026 Waste Collection Calendar or use the free Waste Whiz app to confirm your new day.
Blue Box Recycling Changes
Recycling, managed by Circular Materials, is now biweekly — collected on the opposite week from your garbage.
More items can now be recycled, including:
- Hot and cold beverage cups
- Deodorant packaging
- Toothpaste tubes
- Ice cream tubs
- Black plastic containers
- Frozen juice containers
Cart Tips
- Place carts at the curb by 7 a.m. on your collection day
- Point arrows toward the street, handle facing your house
- Leave at least 2 feet of space on all sides for the truck arm
- Keep the lid closed and nothing on top of the cart
- Extra garbage bags need a garbage tag and go beside the cart
Need Help?
- More Information: regionofwaterloo.ca/waste
- Find your schedule: regionofwaterloo.ca/waste
- Download the Waste Whiz app for reminders and a waste sorting tool
- Call: 519-575-4400 (24 hours, TTY: 519-575-4608)
- Cart questions: carts@regionofwaterloo.ca