New Garbage Changes Coming in Kitchener–Waterloo: What You Need to Know
Big news: the Region of Waterloo is rolling out a cart-based curbside collection system for garbage and organics starting March 2026. Here’s what you need to know to be prepared and make the switch smoothly:
What’s Changing?
Manual pickup of garbage and organics is being replaced by wheeled black carts for garbage and green carts for organics. These will be mechanically lifted by trucks, boosting safety, reliability, and tidiness
The system serves roughly 161,000 single-family homes and small multi-unit buildings
Your Cart Choices
Every household will receive one green organics cart (100 L) and a default large black cart (240 L) for garbage (fits about three bags) r
Want less garbage space? Order a smaller black cart (120 L) by September 5, 2025, using the Region’s online form here
You’ll get to swap carts once for free in fall 2026 if your first pick doesn’t fit your needs
Collection Schedule Updates
The garbage and organics trucks will run Tuesday through Friday, starting March 2, 2026. Expect a shift if your current pick-up day is Monday
Your new 2026 waste calendar drops in February — hold on to your 2025 calendar through February!
Cart Use & Storage Tips
Placement: Carts go out by 7 a.m. on your collection day, front facing the road, and spaced about 2 ft apart
Winter care: Keep carts clear of snowbanks so mechanical arms can reach them
Extra garbage? Use the existing bag‑tag system — place tagged bag beside your cart. No stacking on top!
Cart upkeep:
Rinse them and dispose of water onto grass or gravel, not into storm drains.
Cleaning tip: mix 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water for odor control .
Storage: Keep carts on your property or in your garage—check local bylaws if outside
Why It’s Worth It
Protects workers, reducing risk of injuries like strains and cuts reddit.com.
Faster, tidier collection—no more scattered bags or pests .
Modern best practice—similar systems are standard in places like Toronto, Guelph & Peel .
What You Should Do Now
Choose your cart size (large or small black) by Sep 5, 2025, online or via phone.
Mark March 2026 in your calendar — that’s when the carts start rolling.
Hold onto your 2025 calendar through February 2026.
Use the Waste Whiz app for reminders and schedule updates
Keep an eye out for your information kit and cart delivery before the big switch.