Know before you throw!

Correct waste setout

While tossing your waste bins and bags on the road may be easier, that can make picking them up difficult for collectors. And if your materials aren’t sorted correctly, some items might be left behind. The City of Vaughan is here to help make collection days quick, easy and hassle-free for all involved! 

Here's a refresher on waste setout best practices:

• Be punctual: Place waste out no later than 7 a.m. the morning of your scheduled collection day rather than leaving it on the curb overnight – especially if the forecast calls for wind or rain. Waste collectors will not return for materials set out late.
• Put waste in the right place: Place waste approximately one metre from the curb on the right-hand side of the driveway (when facing the home) where possible. Do not put your waste on the road.
• Remember what goes where: If you can’t remember what items belong in what bins, check the online ‘What Goes Where’ sorting tool, or use the Recycle Coach app, downloadable from the Apple App Store or Google Play. 
• Help deter wildlife: Tie your bagged materials tightly. Collect and store bins and any uncollected garbage on the same day as collection.
• Do not overfill your blue box: Leave space (7.5 centimetres or three inches) at the top of the box.
  • Purchase additional blue boxes or use a larger blue box (up to 121 litres, no attached lid or wheels) if you have too many materials. 
• Keep your items from blowing away: Place heavier items, such as glass bottles and jars, on top of lighter ones, such as paper and plastic containers. Flatten, cut down and bundle cardboard securely, and pack them in the blue box carefully. 
  • Consider putting your recycling out the following week if it’s windy. The City collects unlimited blue boxes weekly!

Want to see how it’s done? Watch this video on waste setout tips.

Have questions about waste collection?

While our waste collectors are working to pick up waste; Service Vaughan is here to answer your questions. If you have questions about your waste, call Service Vaughan at 905-832-2281 or email service@vaughan.ca. 

Where to buy waste bins

If you need a new blue box or green bin, you can purchase them online through Service Vaughan and have them delivered right to your door. Alternatively, buy these items in person at select community centres, while supplies last. You can also sign up through Service Vaughan to exchange a broken City-issued blue box or green bin for a new one. 

For more information on the City’s waste services, visit vaughan.ca/waste.

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