Black and green waste carts launching in March 2026
Waste collection will change in 2026.
Right now, the Region of Waterloo is preparing to roll out a new cart-based waste collection system.
This fall, we’ll be delivering black and green carts to all residents currently receiving Region waste service. Garbage will go in the black carts and organic waste will go in the green carts. A kitchen catcher for food scraps is also included, to make organic waste collection even easier.
“By changing to cart-based collection, we’re making waste collection across the Region cleaner, safer and more efficient,” said Olivia Kwok, Director of Waste Management.
Cart-based waste collection will begin in March 2026.
Anyone living in an apartment, condo building, or housing complex that doesn’t get Region waste collection will keep using their current waste management services.
Residents also have a choice between two sizes of black cart. The small black cart fits 120 litres of garbage, with a weight limit of 100 pounds.
The large black cart fits up to 240 litres of garbage, with a weight limit of 200 pounds.
Everyone will get the large cart by default. But if you’d like to switch to the small cart you can do so until September 5, 2025, at our webpage about the 2026 curbside collection changes. The Region’s Service First Contact Centre can also assist when you call 519-575-4400.
Residents will be asked to use the black cart they receive for about six months. If, after that time, residents want to size up or down, they can request a one-time exchange at no cost, starting in fall 2026.
Throughout the summer, the Waste Management outreach team has been busy across the community attending events and holding pop-ups to show off the new carts.
To date, our team has reached nearly 13,000 residents in-person, answering questions and helping people understand the new carts. You can find a list of weekly locations at EngageWR.ca/carts.
The Region of Waterloo is no longer responsible for blue box recycling as of March 4, 2024. So, cart-based collection will only be for residential garbage and organics. Details on recycling can be found on the Region’s recycling page.
We understand that transitions can take time. The Region is committed to helping everyone get familiar with the new system and be prepared for launch in March 2026.
Information on cart delivery, cart exchange and what can be done with old green bins and garbage cans will be posted on EngageWR.ca/carts and regionofwaterloo.ca/carts as the rollout continues. You can also find frequently asked questions and ask your own questions there.
Don’t forget to download the Waste Whiz app for information about collection changes, how to sort your waste, and rollout updates.