Ottawa is making waves with its new garbage collection rules, limiting households to just three items of garbage every two weeks! This change is part of an ambitious strategy to slash waste and prolong the lifespan of the Trail Road Waste Facility until 2049. The city aims to encourage residents to rethink their waste disposal habits, opening the door to more sustainable practices like reusing, recycling, and composting.

What's Behind the New Garbage Limit?

The new regulation, which took effect on September 30, reflects Ottawa's commitment to environmental responsibility. With landfills filling up, the city emphasizes the financial and ecological benefits of reducing waste. “Reducing unnecessary waste from going to landfill helps keep disposal and collection costs lower,” the city commented. As Ottawans adjust to the new rules, the city believes it could foster a culture of mindfulness around waste.

Enforcement Schedule: What You Should Expect

To ensure a smooth transition, the enforcement of this three-item limit will be rolled out over the next three months. Come December, any garbage exceeding the limit will remain curbside. Here’s a brief overview: - **October**: All garbage will be collected regardless of the new limit, but collection staff will leave a custom tag informing residents about the new rules. - **November**: If a household exceeds the limit, collection staff will note the non-compliance and leave one item behind, along with a custom tag. - **December**: Enforcement kicks in fully, with only three garbage items being collected each collection period. Those who exceed the limit will receive a non-compliance tag affixed to their leftover garbage.

What Counts as a Garbage Item?

When setting out your garbage, keep in mind that a "garbage item" can be any of the following: - A regular garbage bag - A 140-litre container filled with smaller bags (under 33 pounds) - A bulky item that cannot be reused or donated, such as broken furniture

Creative Combinations: How to Maximize Your Garbage Limit

Here are some examples of how you can arrange your three allowable items: - Two bins and one broken chair - Two black garbage bags accompanied by one bin - Just three bins or three plastic bags

What If You Have More Than 3 Items?

For those who fall prey to excess clutter, fear not! You can purchase special City of Ottawa yellow bags from participating retailers for just $17.60 for a pack of four. Alternatively, excess waste can be dropped off at the Trail Road Landfill, though there is a minimum disposal fee of $35.

Who Needs to Comply with the New Rules?

This three-item limit affects all households that participate in curbside collection. This includes single-family homes and multi-use properties with six units or less, where each unit can still dispose of three items every two weeks.

Why This Change Matters

The new garbage limit isn't just a set of rules; it's a call to action for all residents to contribute to a greener future. By reducing waste going into landfills, Ottawa aims not only to ease costs for residents but also to help the environment by limiting carbon footprints associated with waste management. As we approach these significant changes, are you ready to embrace the challenge of ‘living with less’ and contributing to a greener community? Stay informed, act responsibly, and let’s make recycling a part of our everyday lives!