Effective January 1, 2026, recycling collection for non-residential properties, such as businesses, places of worship and community facilities, serviced by Niagara Region will be discontinued.
This change is due to the Province’s Blue Box Regulation (O. Reg. 391/21), which shifts responsibility for residential recycling to producers. Non-residential properties (also referred to as Non-Eligible Sources) are not included in the provincial Blue Box program, meaning recycling from these properties cannot be collected on the same trucks as residential materials.
Continuing this service independently would require a completely separate recycling collection system for non-residential properties, including a separate fleet. The total estimated cost of delivering this standalone service would be up to $3.5 million per year, a level that is not financially reasonable or sustainable under the Region’s current budget.
To avoid service disruption, affected properties should arrange private recycling services as soon as possible. Niagara Region will provide resources and guidance to assist businesses and institutions during this transition.
Please note: Niagara Region Green Bin/Cart and garbage collection services to non-residential properties will not be impacted by this change. Visit niagararegion.ca/waste to learn more about these programs.
Continued updates on the Blue Box transition and resources for non-residential properties will be available at niagararegion.ca/projects/blue-box-transition or by calling the Waste Info-Line at 905-356-4141 or toll-free 1-800-594-5542, Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.