Put trash where it belongs!

July 31, 2020 10:00 a.m.
​Keeping Vaughan clean is everyone’s responsibility
 
For the past few months, City crews have been hard at work cleaning up litter and illegally dumped material across Vaughan, collecting more than 2,300 tonnes of garbage in our public spaces – that’s equivalent to the weight of about 365 elephants! The City is reminding residents we all have a role to play in keeping Vaughan clean – by putting our trash where it belongs, we can reduce litter in our parks, neighbourhoods and roadways.
 
What you can do
 
  • Use recycling and waste bins provided by the City in public spaces. If they are full, take your garbage home with you.
  • Keep your home and surrounding area clean of litter. Prevent windblown litter by not overfilling your recycling bins.
  • Recycle properly – masks, gloves, paper towels, wipes and plastic bags do not belong in the blue box or on the ground in public spaces, place these items in the garbage.
  • Report illegal dumping or litter to Access Vaughan at 905-832-2281 or accessvaughan@vaughan.ca.  
Consequences of littering
 
Littering has many negative consequences on our community and quality of life. It can be harmful to the environment as many items do not biodegrade; it can be dangerous for pets and wildlife as they may eat or be injured by discarded items; and it is expensive for the City to clean up this trash. In fact, crews have spent more than 600 hours in 2020 alone cleaning up litter – from cigarette butts, cans and household waste, to discarded fridges, stoves and kitchen sinks.
 
It’s against the law
 
Littering and illegal dumping are prohibited and may be subject to a $205 fine. Private property conditions are governed by the City’s Debris By-law and Property Standards By-law. Those who do not keep their properties clear of litter, waste and debris may be subject to a fine of $5,000 for each offence. As well, the City may have the waste and debris removed at the owner’s expense and it may be subject to an Order to Comply, under the Building Code Act. Failing to comply with an order is a chargeable offense.
 
We are here to help
 
Struggling to meet the three-item garbage limit? We can help. City staff are offering virtual one-on-one coaching sessions – via FaceTime, WhatsApp, Skype and Zoom – to help you understand what goes where, reduce landfill and answer any questions you have about the City’s waste collection services. Book your appointment today by contacting Access Vaughan at 905-832-2281 or accessvaughan@vaughan.ca.
 
Resources to support you
 
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