New recycling changes starting Jan. 1 in province-wide shift

Updated rules for fire codes, carbon monoxide detectors and recycling have been put in place for 2026.

Recycling services will change on Jan. 1 as Ontario transitions into the final phase of its province-wide shift to Extended Producer Responsibility.

One drastic change is the introduction of disposal fees at county transfer stations. The county says that these fees are necessary because provincial funding, which previously supported recycling costs, will cease once the producer-run system is fully implemented.

Starting Thursday, recycling dropped off at county waste facilities will be subject to a minimum fee of $10, or $200 per tonne. Charges will apply to both residents who get curbside recycling and all industrial, commercial, and institutional properties.

While garbage and organics will continue to be collected, recycling will now be separated and either taken to a county facility or managed through a private contractor.

What’s accepted in the blue box?

• Black plastic containers, which were previously too difficult to process.
• Hot and cold drink cups, such as takeout coffee cups.
• Frozen juice containers and ice cream tubs.
• Deodorant and toothpaste tubes, now accepted thanks to new sorting technology.

Recycling will still be picked up on regular collection days using existing carts, though it will now be handled by Emterra. Garbage and organics will continue to be collected by Miller Waste.

Pickup times: Residents can also expect to see different pickup times due to new routes.

In the new year, all recycling-related questions should be directed to Emterra at 1-888-597-1541 or [e-mail].