Frequently Asked Questions

Collection Calendar
Waste Drop-Off Locations

I’m a new resident, how do I receive waste collection?

If you moved into an existing residence, use our Find Your Schedule page to look up your waste collection schedule. If your house is a new build or your address can’t be found, please contact us at waste@muskoka.on.ca or 705-645-6764.

Waste material for curbside collection must be set out by 7 a.m.
Garbage bags must be standard size, weighing less than 50 pounds. Contractor-size garbage bags are not accepted.
Recycling is single-stream, meaning your container and paper products can be mixed in the same box.
We recommend using a blue recycling box or similar sized containers.
Recycling boxes can be purchased through the District or local retailers.
Green bin containers will be provided free of charge for addresses in the green bin collection area - one per household. If eligible, a green bin will be delivered by the curbside contractor upon request.

Why can't pet waste and kitty litter go in the green bin?

Pet waste is not accepted in Muskoka’s green bin program because it increases pathogens in our final compost product, which greatly reduces the quality of our compost. Kitty litter is also not accepted in the green bin program because quality compost can only contain a minimal amount of clay/rock/sand in it before greatly compromising its condition. Kitty litter is also made differently from brand to brand and often has added chemicals that can impact the quality of the compost.

Where does our recycling ultimately end up?

Our recycling now goes to a state-of-the-art material recycling facility operated by GFL Environmental Inc. At this facility, blue box recyclables are sorted intotheir respective marketable commodities including various plastics, aluminum, steel, paper and glass. These commodities are then sold and converted into reusable materials such as resin pellets, paper products or aluminum ingots. These materials are then used by various industries to manufacture new products such as egg cartons, tissue paper, corrugated boxes, plastic bottles, glass containers, aluminum beverage cans and automotive products. This is why recycling right is so important.

What are your waste site hours?

Our site hours vary by location. Visit our Drop-off Locations and Landfill page for more information.

What do I do if I think my collection was missed?

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.muskokarecycles.ca or check your Muskoka Recycles 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 Recycles mobile app to receive notifications on collection impacts and possible missed collections in your neighbourhood. Please note, the app is for single-family residences.

Report a missed collection.

Where do I report curbside collection issues?

If you’re experiencing issues with curbside collection, please contact us at waste@muskoka.on.ca or 705-645-6764.

What are my eligible waste limits?

If you’re unsure of your weekly limits please use our Find Your Collection Schedule tool if you receive curbside collection. You may also contact us at waste@muskoka.on.ca or 705-645-6764.

When does weekly garbage collection begin?

Weekly garbage collection resumes the week of May 7, 2023 with our summer collection program.

I use a roadside bin, what do I need to do to receive winter 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.
Please ensure bags are securely tied shut, with no rips, tears or leaks.
Bags must be standard-size and weigh less than 50 lbs (no oversized/contractor bags).
No loose garbage - all waste must be secured inside bags.
If storing recycling inside of the bin, it must be in clear plastic bags. Bas must be secured shut with no rips or tears.
If using blue boxes, they must be placed outside of the bin as to not create spillage/overflow.
Please don't overload your bin.

I live on a seasonal road without curbside collection in the winter, what do I do with my garbage?

Two (2) standard-size garbage bags, and unlimited household recycling and organics can be delivered to any licensed waste facility at no charge per week.
Summer curbside collection routes will resume the week of May 7, 2023.

In some communities, winter common collection points have been established through an approval process with the District. For more information, please contact the District of Muskoka’s Waste Management team at 705-645-6764 or waste@muskoka.on.ca.

Where can I find my collection schedule? Can I get a calendar?

Collection schedules can be found on our Find Your Collection Schedule page or via the Muskoka Recycles Mobile App. If you don’t have access to a computer or smartphone and would like a printed version mailed, please contact the District of Muskoka’s Waste Management Department at 705-645-6764 or waste@muskoka.on.ca.

What do I do with my real Christmas tree?

Christmas trees are not collected at the curb. Instead, consider one of the following options:

deliver your Christmas tree to any waste facility in Muskoka at no charge (January and February only)
use the branches to cover weather-sensitive plants in your yard
use it as firewood, or cut your tree up and compost it on your property

What are the tipping fees?

Our 2022 fees are available on our Drop-off Locations and Landfill page.

What can I put in my green bin?

Visit our organics page for information on what is acceptable for organic collection or organic drop off.

Where can I take hazardous waste?

Muskoka residents can drop off household hazardous waste free of charge at scheduled events or at our year-round facility in Bracebridge. Visit our Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off page for details.

What do I do with mattresses? Furniture?

Mattresses and box springs can be delivered to a transfer station for a fee of $28 per mattress and/or box spring.

We recommend trying to sell or donate furniture that is still in good condition. Otherwise, items are charged by weight for a fee of $211 per tonne.

Our 2022 fees our available on our Drop-off Locations and Landfill page.

Are the Reuse Depots open?

Yes, our Reuse Depots are open. Please note, items intended for the Reuse Depot shall be brought to the attention of the site attendant upon arrival at the booth to be weighed. The site attendant will inspect the item(s) and at their discretion, approve or refuse items - damaged or broken goods are unacceptable. For a list of acceptable and unacceptable items visit our Donate Reusable Items page.
Textiles, children’s toys, sporting equipment and electronics won’t be accepted. Please look for an alternative option to donate these items.

Why are bin sites being removed?

For information on our Bin Site Transition visit EngageMuskoka.ca and follow the links to our Bin Site Transition Plan page.

Garbage and Recycling-Frequently Asked Questions