City piloting new innovative approach to waste collection in parks

Municipalinfonet.com
Sept. 18, 2020

The City of Vaughan is launching a pilot project using Quick Response (QR) Codes to alert staff about full garbage cans in City parks. Residents will be able to scan the code found on the garbage can using their smartphone to notify City staff when it is full and needs to be emptied. Regular waste collection of these bins will continue, but the codes will allow residents to alert the City when additional cleaning is required.

These bins - which will be piloted in select parks - will have smaller openings that will help deter animals from getting inside as well as illegal household dumping.

As crews continue to clean up litter across Vaughan, the City is reminding residents we all have a role to play in keeping Vaughan clean - by putting our trash where it belongs, we can reduce litter in our parks, neighbourhoods and on roadways.

Littering is against the law

Littering and illegal dumping are prohibited and may be subject to a $205 fine. Private property conditions are governed by the City's Debris By-law and Property Standards By-law. Those who do not keep their properties clear of litter, waste and debris may be subject to a fine of $5,000 for each offence. As well, the City may have the waste and debris removed at the owner's expense and it may be subject to an Order to Comply under the Building Code Act. Failing to comply with an order is a chargeable offense.

What you can do

• Use recycling and waste bins provided by the City in public spaces. If they are full, take your garbage home with you.
• Keep your home and surrounding area clean of litter. Prevent windblown litter by not overfilling your recycling bins.
• Recycle properly - masks, gloves, paper towels, wipes and plastic bags do not belong in the blue box or on the ground in public spaces; place these items in the garbage.
• Report illegal dumping or litter to Access Vaughan at 905-832-2281 or accessvaughan@vaughan.ca.

Consequences of littering

Littering has many negative consequences on our community and quality of life. It can be harmful to the environment as many items do not biodegrade; it can be dangerous for pets and wildlife as they may eat or be injured by discarded items; and it is expensive for the City to clean up this trash.

We are here to help

Struggling to meet the three-item garbage limit? We can help. City staff are offering virtual one-on-one coaching sessions - via FaceTime, WhatsApp, Skype and Zoom - to help you understand what goes where, reduce landfill and to answer any questions you have about the City's waste collection services. Book your appointment today by contacting Access Vaughan at 905-832-2281 or accessvaughan@vaughan.ca.

Resources to support you

• Visit our website at vaughan.ca/waste.
• Check out the What Goes Where tool.
• Learn about the medical waste exemption program.
• Order paid garbage tags to be sent to your home by calling 905-832-2281.
• Exchange your damaged City-issued green bin or blue box by calling 905-832-2281.
• Receive customized notifications about your waste collection by downloading the Recycle Coach mobile app.