| Missed Collection |
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If your waste was missed, please confirm your collection schedule before taking either of the following actions.
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| Extreme winter weather curbside collection |
| If winter weather delays collection, updates will be shared on this page and in our Muskoka Waste app. |
| Winter curbside tips |
- Set material out before 7 a.m. on the morning of collection to prevent overnight snow cover. Snow-covered material could lead to missed collection due to poor visibility.
- Don’t place material on top of snowbanks. Material placed on a snowbank presents an unsafe, awkward reach and cannot be collected. Instead, clear an area, without blocking the sidewalk, to the side of your driveway or place your containers/bags in your driveway. Ensure the placement of your material does not interfere with snow removal equipment.
- Bring in your empty containers as soon as possible.
- If using a roadside bin, it must be clear of snow and ice – please make sure lids and latches are not frozen. A clear path must be maintained so crews can collect material safely.
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| Winter curbside FAQ's |
| What do I do if I think my collection was missed this winter? |
| We remind residents that material must be at the curb no later than 7 a.m. as routes may be collected at different times. We ask residents for their patience and understanding as crews may be on the roads as late as 7 p.m. in the evening completing routes.
If your material is still at the curb later than 7 p.m. on your regular collection day, please check www.muskokawaste.ca or check your Muskoka Waste app notifications for delays and collection impacts. We ask residents to set material back out at the curb the next business day, prior to 7 a.m. as crews will attempt to return. (If your regular collection day is on Friday, set material back out on Monday morning unless directed otherwise.)
We encourage all residents to register for our Muskoka Waste app to receive notifications on winter collection impacts and possible missed collections in your neighbourhood. Please note, the app is for single-family residences.
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| I live on a seasonal road without curbside collection, what do I do with my garbage? |
| Weekly limits of garbage, recycling and organics can be delivered to any licensed waste facility at no charge.
Summer curbside collection routes will resume the week of May 4, 2026.
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| I use a roadside bin in the winter, what do I need to do to receive collection? |
| A clear path to the bin must be maintained (shoveled) to ensure safe access for our curbside drivers and bin visibility. Please ensure the lid is clear of snow and the latches/lid are not frozen shut.
If storing recycling inside of the bin, it must be in translucent blue plastic bags. If using blue boxes, they must be placed outside of the bin as to not create spillage/overflow. Please ensure garbage or recycling bags aren't placed on top of each other where one may be hidden from view. Place bags beside each other inside the bin.
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| Extreme heat curbside collection |
Extreme heat can impact curbside waste collection. Our crews work hard to complete routes safely during high temperatures, but delays can happen. Here's what to do when a heat event is declared:
- Set out waste by 6 a.m.: Early placement ensures crews can start before peak heat hours.
- Leave it out until 7 p.m.: Crews may be delayed. Please keep your material curbside until 7 p.m. unless otherwise notified.
- Secure waste overnight if not collected: If your material isn't picked up by 7 p.m., bring it in overnight to avoid animal encounters and set it back out by 7 a.m. the following day.
- Crews will return: If your route is missed due to heat-related delays, collection will resume the next day. Please note, there's no need to report a missed pick-up.
Be heat-wise and safe: If you see our crews out working, give them space and allow for extra time during hot weather. Your patience helps keep everyone safe. |
| Summer curbside tips |
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Warm weather brings busy days, weekend visitors, and lots of time outdoors, so it’s extra important to manage household waste the right way.
Follow these simple curbside tips to help keep our roads tidy, animals safe, and collection running smoothly all summer long:
1. Use approved containers and clear bags
- By-law 2025-4 mandates clear, colourless plastic bags (75 L or smaller, max 25 kg/55 lb) for curbside garbage. Opaque or coloured bags won’t be collected.
- Tip: Use clear bags, and if you prefer, place them inside approved rigid containers for extra durability.
2. Set out responsibly
- Place bins/bags no more than 5 m (16 ft.) from the road by 7 a.m. on collection day, not the night before to prevent wildlife scavenging. If animals are a nuisance a roadside bear bin can help. Please contact us at waste@muskoka.on.ca to confirm proper placement for a bear bin at your driveway.
- Remove any items from the curb by 7 p.m. the same day.
- Tip: Download the waste app to set collection reminders.
3. Know your setout limits
- Only set out the designated number of bags per week. Remember, extra bags need a bag tag, which can be purchased at any transfer station. Garbage bag tags cost $8 each or five tags for $35.
- Tip: Keep extra tags on hand for unplanned occasions requiring an extra bag.
4. Prohibited at the curb
- Certain items are not collectable curbside under the by-law, including household hazardous waste, automobile parts, appliances with refrigerants, and oversized/bulky items.
5. Be ready for heat adjustments
- Heat warnings or air quality notices issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada or Simcoe Muskoka District Health may disrupt regular collection to keep collection crews safe.
- Tip: Download the free Muskoka Waste app to receive collection alerts directly to your phone.
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