On November 20, 2025, Niagara Region approved the discontinuation of curbside recycling
collection for Non-Eligible Sources (Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional properties),
effective January 1, 2026.
Why is this change happening?
This change is part of Ontario’s changes under the Blue Box Regulation (O. Reg. 391/21).
Under this regulation, producers (the companies that supply packaging and paper products)
are now responsible for operating and funding the residential recycling system in Ontario.
Non-eligible Sources, such as businesses, places of worship, institutions and non-profits are
not part of the new Blue Box program. As a result, recycling from these properties can no
longer be collected on the same truck as residential recycling.
Currently, approximately 4,375 NES properties across the region receive recycling collection
through Niagara Region. Continuing this service independently would require a separate
collection fleet, with an estimated annual cost of up to $3.5 million, a level that is not financially
sustainable under the Region’s current budget.
What does this mean for your property?
If your property currently receives recycling collection through Niagara Region, this service will
end on January 1, 2026. To avoid disruption, affected properties should begin arranging for
private recycling services as soon as possible.
Properties not currently receiving recycling collection from Niagara Region do not need to take
any action.
Depending on Council’s direction, continued access to Niagara Region’s drop-off depots may
be available as an interim or alternative option. More information will be shared once it is
confirmed. Visit niagararegion.ca/waste/landfills to stay informed and for drop-off depot
locations.
Finding a Private Recycling Collector
To assist businesses and other non-eligible sources with the transition of the curbside recycling
collection program, Niagara Region has compiled a list of private recycling service providers
that operate in the area.
We encourage you to contact these providers directly to discuss service options, pricing, and
availability. This list is provided for informational purposes only and is not exhaustive. Niagara
Region does not endorse or recommend any specific service provider.
We encourage you to contact these providers directly to discuss service options, pricing, and
availability. This list is provided for informational purposes only and is not exhaustive. Niagara
Region does not endorse or recommend any specific service provider.
Need Additional Support?
Niagara Region is committed to supporting affected properties through this transition. For
updates and resources, visit: niagararegion.ca/projects/blue-box-transition.
For questions, please call the Waste Info-Line at 905-356-4141 or toll-free at 1-800-594-5542,
Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Thank you for your attention to this important change and for your continued commitment to
responsible waste management.