Recyclable items must be sorted out of garbage bags
Waste sorting enforcement starts today
Kawartha Lakes – Waste sorting enforcement is now in effect across Kawartha Lakes.
Starting today, Miller Waste collectors will check garbage bags for recyclable materials. Garbage that contains recyclables may be stickered and left behind.
What this means for you
At the time of collection, Miller Waste will leave an “Oops” sticker on any garbage bags that contain recyclables.
If recyclables are removed and the bag is set out the following week, Miller Waste will collect the previously stickered bag as part of a double collection. This grace period will be in place until further notice.
Residents who do not want to sort through garbage already at the curb may purchase bag tags to place on their stickered, unsorted garbage, and place at the curb for double collection the following week.
Reminder: Using bag tags on garbage containing recyclables will not be accepted on an ongoing basis. This temporary measure is permitted until further notice.
If recyclables are not removed and the garbage is set out again, it will continue to be stickered and left behind. Residents can take excess waste to the landfill (fees apply).
Why this is happening
As part of the expanded recycling program that began January 1, 2026, more items can now go in recycling, including materials like flexible plastics and beverage cups. With more items accepted for recycling, less should be going in the garbage.
This enforcement also supports the City’s Integrated Waste Management Strategy, which focuses on reducing waste sent to landfill and increasing recycling and diversion.
Sorting waste properly helps:
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Conserve landfill space
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Keep collection running smoothly
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Ensure materials are handled by the right collector
For more information, view our Frequently Asked Questions.
Respecting collection staff
Please be respectful and kind to waste collection staff. Miller Waste collectors are acting on behalf of the City to enforce the by-law and help keep the program consistent for everyone.
City staff will continue to monitor the program and support residents during the transition.
Learn more
For details on what’s recyclable and must be kept out of your garbage bags, visit the Circular Materials – Kawartha Lakes website.
For all the information about the residential curbside waste program, visit the Residential Waste Collection page.
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Contact Us
Kawartha Lakes
P.O. Box 9000, 26 Francis Street
Lindsay, ON, K9V 5R8
Telephone: 705-324-9411
Toll free at 1-888-822-2225
After-hours emergencies: 1-877-885-7337
