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Leaf and Yard Waste Guidelines

Effective January 1, 2005, all plastic bags are banned from the leaf and yard waste collection. Please use environmentally friendly Kraft paper bags or rigid reusable containers. Tree and shrub clippings should be tied with string and bundled. The maximum diameter of the trees and shrub clippings is 60 cm (24 inches) and 90 cm (36 inches) in length. Tree stumps will not be collected. Bundles or bags shall not exceed 22 kgs (50 lbs) in weight.

Important: Please place all yard waste at the curb by 7:00 a.m.

York Region Residents may drop off yard waste free of charge at the following locations during these specified hours:

Yard Waste Drop-off Facility (1351 Bloomington Rd, Richmond Hill)

  • Summer Hours (April 1 to November 30):
    • Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
    • Saturday, 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
  • Winter Hours (December 1 to March 31):
    • Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Georgina Transfer Station (23068 Warden Avenue, Georgina)

  • Monday to Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Note: All Facilities are closed on statutory holidays.

Seaweed (Duckweed) Pick-up

Residents residing along the shoreline are permitted to place lakeshore waste (i.e. seaweed) as part of yard waste. Shoreline waste is picked up on the residents' normal yard waste collection days. It is suggested that seaweed be dried prior to placing in yard waste containers. Please refer to your Waste Management Calendar for yard waste collection days.

Helpful Hints regarding your yard waste collection

  • If you have a minimal amount of yard waste, purchase a rigid container at your local hardware store. Yellow "Yard Waste" stickers are available at the Civic Centre or the three Public Libraries at no cost. Kraft Paper bags are another option and are available at most major retailers.
  • Make sure your yard waste is less than 50 lbs. (22 kgs.)
  • Tie your branches in bundles of (maximum) 3ft. in length and 2 ft. in diameter.
  • Place yard waste at the curb the night before your collection date.
  • Purchase a composter at the Georgina Ice Palace for $25.00 and enjoy the benefits of composting your yard waste year round.
  • Do not put sod or dirt out for collection.
  • Grasscycle your grass clippings by mulching them with a mulching blade.