Blue and Black Bin Collection Changes in 2026
What’s changing and why
Ontario is introducing a new producer-managed recycling system. Under provincial regulations,
responsibility for collecting and processing recyclable paper and packaging shifts from municipalities
to the producers who design and sell those materials. The goal is a simpler, more consistent system
across the province with better recycling outcomes.
As part of this transition, the City of Ottawa will no longer collect blue and black bins after
January 1, 2026. Circular Materials, a national not-for-profit, will administer
the new program on behalf of producers. Their contractor, Miller Waste Services,
will provide curbside collection in Ottawa.
What this means for your curbside pickup
- Collection day: Put your bins at the curb by 7:00 a.m. on your usual day. A different truck may collect, and pickup time may vary.
- Your bins: Keep using your existing standard-sized blue and black bins.
- Accepted materials: The list will be standardized across Ontario and expanded. A full, up-to-date list will be available on the Circular Materials website.
- Service requests: Starting January 1, 2026, do not contact the City for recycling services (missed pickup, broken bin, exchanges). Updated contact details will be shared before the transition.
More items you’ll be able to recycle
Ontario’s unified material list will allow more everyday items in your blue and black bins. New additions include:
- Coffee cups (paper-based and plastic-lined)
- Plastic bags
- Toothpaste tubes
- Deodorant containers
- Ice cream tubs
- Black plastic containers
- Frozen juice containers
These changes support a circular economy by helping producers design packaging that can be collected,
recycled, and turned into new products.
How to prepare
- Give containers a quick rinse and place items clean, dry, and loose in your bin.
- Flatten and bundle cardboard to save space.
- Leave lids and labels on—they’re typically recyclable and help with sorting.
- Have bins at the curb by 7:00 a.m. on collection day.
- Keep hazardous items, batteries, and medical sharps out of your recycling. Use designated drop-off options.
Key dates
- Now through December 31, 2025: Follow current City of Ottawa recycling guidelines.
- January 1, 2026: Circular Materials administers the program; Miller Waste Services begins collection in Ottawa.
Who to contact
Before January 1, 2026, continue to contact the City of Ottawa for recycling questions.
Details on who to contact for recycling services starting in 2026 will be provided closer to the transition date.
Stay informed
- Download the Ottawa Collection Calendar app for reminders and updates.
- Follow the City of Ottawa on social media.
- Subscribe to City News and Waste Plan newsletters for transition updates.
- Learn more about Ontario’s new recycling system at the Circular Materials website.