Designated Downtown Areas Waste Collection

• Bags are not required
• Do not overfill your carts – the lid must be fully closed
• Hazardous waste materials, electronics, batteries, and tires are not collected – Visit regionofwaterloo.ca/waste or the Waste Whiz app for more information.
• Bulky items and yard waste are not included in downtown waste collection services
• The weight of the extra-large cart cannot exceed 300 pounds (135 kilograms), the large cart cannot exceed 200 pounds (90 kilograms), and the small cart cannot exceed 100 pounds (45 kilograms).

For details on cart sizes, features, and dimensions, please refer to the Information Kit.

• Recyclables can be mixed (paper and containers) in the same cart
• Remove plastic from cardboard boxes
• Flatten and tie cardboard into bundles and place beside the blue cart for collection. Maximum size 75 x 75 x 20 cm (30 x 30 x 8 inches)
• The weight of the extra-large cart cannot exceed 300 pounds (135 kilograms) and the small cart cannot exceed 100 pounds (45 kilograms).
• Do not use a cardboard box to hold other recycling

For details on cart sizes, features, and dimensions, please refer to the Information Kit.

Reminder: residential locations must continue to use blue boxes provided by Circular Materials. Visit circularmaterials.ca/waterlooregion for more information.

The green organics cart is a new addition to the downtown area. By using the green cart, your food scraps and other organics can be transformed into nutrient-rich compost instead of ending up in the landfill.

• Turn the handle to lock and unlock your cart
• Keep your green cart locked unless adding material - the lid unlocks when flipped by the truck
• Liner bags are not required, with the exception of pet waste which must be wrapped in paper or certified compostable bags
• No liquids or oil
• The weight of the cart cannot exceed 85 pounds (38 kilograms)

Liner options

• Certified compostable bags

• Paper bags or newspaper

For details on cart dimensions, please refer to the Information Kit.

Coming soon - stay tuned!

Coming soon - stay tuned!

Who are waste carts assigned to, and who should I contact with questions?

Carts are assigned to the property, not individual units, and shared amongst tenants; contact your property manager regarding your waste collection needs, cart access and sorting expectations.

What should I do when setting out carts in winter?

During winter conditions, please ensure there is a clear and safe path to roll your carts to the collection location. To make moving carts easier through snow, pull the cart behind you like a sled rather than pushing it in front of you like a plow. Carts must be placed at ground level and not placed on top of or behind snowbanks, or on the road, to allow for safe and efficient collection.

How can I keep my carts clean and reduce odours?

To help keep your carts clean and reduce odours, rinse them regularly with water, use liner bags, and consider adding baking soda to the bottom of the cart. Placing items such as paper egg cartons or pizza boxes at the bottom of your green organics cart can help prevent material from sticking. If items do become stuck, use a broom or shovel to gently loosen and remove them.

What should I do if my cart is damaged?

Carts are covered under warranty and will be repaired or replaced if they are damaged through regular use. Carts are no longer covered under warranty if they have been permanently modified in any way. To request a repair or replacement, scan the QR code located on your cart, complete the inquiry form at regionofwaterloo.ca/waste, or contact the Service First Call Centre at 519-575-4400.