Description of Service/Summary:
This article outlines the requirements for garbage collection for residential properties and apartments above businesses in Toronto. It includes proper set-out times, bin placement, overflow garbage procedures, and how to report missed pickups. It also highlights seasonal considerations and prohibited items.
Garbage Collection Requirements:
- Set-out times:
- Day collection: Place bins at the curb after 8 p.m. the night before and by 7 a.m. on collection day.
- Night collection (apartments above businesses): Set out garbage between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. on collection day.
- Winter: Ensure bins are placed in a visible and accessible area; not on or behind snowbanks. If needed, you may clear a designated area for bin placement, as outlined on the City’s website.
- Bin placement:
- Wheels and handles must face the house.
- Bins must be 2 feet apart with 3 metres of clearance above for automated collection.
- Remove all tie-downs or bungee cords before collection.
- Weight limits:
- Each bin, bag, or item must weigh no more than 20 kg (44 lbs).
- Bin type:
- Only City-issued garbage bins are accepted.
- Garbage must be bagged and placed inside the bin.
Overflow Garbage Guidelines:
- Overflow garbage must be placed beside the bin, not inside or on top of it.
- Each overflow bag must have a City-issued garbage tag.
- Tags are available at Canadian Tire stores or can be purchased online.
- In District 4 / Scarborough, there is no second truck—overflow bags must be visible for manual collection.
Prohibited and Special Waste:
- Do not place recyclables, renovation waste, hazardous waste, grass, soil, or sod in regular garbage.
- Lumber/wood is considered renovation waste and must be taken to a designated depot.
- Giant Hogweed must be bagged in heavy-duty plastic, labeled, and placed in regular garbage—do not compost or place in yard waste.
Reporting Missed Collection:
Submit a service request online at http://www.toronto.ca/311/ or call 311. Include your address and leave the bin at the curb until the issue is resolved.
- Missed garbage collection must be reported within 1 business day of the scheduled pickup.
- Leave your bin at the curbside after reporting a missed pickup.
- The City will investigate missed collections within 24 hours (Tuesday to Friday).
- Garbage placed in open boxes, cartons, or small shopping bags will not be collected.
- Loose garbage in bins can cause litter and safety hazards; bag all garbage unless it’s a large item.
