Garbage

According to your collection schedule, garbage collection is on the same day every other week. Check your collection schedule by downloading the Durham Region Waste App or using our waste schedule tool on the Collection Schedule page. To avoid missing the collection truck, set up a reoccurring collection reminder and be sure to set your materials by the curb no later than 7 a.m. on the day of your collection but no earlier than 6 p.m. the day before your collection.

Curbside garbage collection

Bag limits and collection requirements

• bag limit: four garbage bags per registered dwelling unit for each bi-weekly collection
• maximum bag size: 66 cm by 90 cm (26 in by 36 in)
• maximum weight: 20 kg (44 lbs)
• Garbage bag tags must be purchased and attached to each bag over the four bag limit
• do not use garbage cans when placing your garbage at the curb

For the collection of larger items, such as furniture and appliances, visit our residential Large Item Collection page.

There has been an increased occurrence in the size of bags community members are using, which causes significant challenges with collection operations. Even if they are under the weight limit, oversized bags tend to be bulky. This creates problems for the equipment, as bulky bags get stuck, requiring operators to cycle the compactor more frequently. This not only slows down collection services but also impacts the life span of our equipment.

Garbage bag tags

Community members must affix city issued garbage bag tags to any garbage bags over the four bag limit to be eligible for collection. Bag tags are available for a fee of $2.50/tag (sold in sheets of five) or as part of our Waste Assistance Programs.

The purpose of the fee for bag tags is to:

• offset the cost of delivering waste collection services
• provide consistent fee structure with municipal comparators
• encourage community members to reduce waste by using diversion programs such as green bin recycling, retail take back programs, donations and upcycling. 

Where to buy bag tags 

• Online or by contacting Service Oshawa at 905-436-3311. Tags are mailed within 3-5 business days.

 Garbage Bag Tag Order Form 

• In person at some municipal recreation facilities at the following locations:
  • Animal Services, 919 Farewell St. S.
  • Civic Recreation Complex, 99 Thornton Rd. S.
  • Delpark Homes Centre, 1661 Harmony Rd. N.
  • Donevan Recreation Complex, 171 Harmony Rd. S.
  • Oshawa Centre Guest Service, 419 King St. N., 905-686-6408
  • Service Oshawa, City Hall, 50 Centre St. S.
  • South Oshawa Community Centre, 1455 Cedar St.

Waste Assistance Programs

For those that qualify, the City offers a number of programs that allow for exceptions to collection requirements for community members. Learn more about waste assistance programs on the Garbage, Recycling and Green Bin page.

Materials left at the curb?

Before calling Service Oshawa to report a missed collection, please review the common set out mistakes.

Zero waste

To create less waste, we need to think differently when shopping and going about our daily lives. Move toward a zero waste future by:

• Diverting appropriate waste into the green bin and blue box
• Reusing or repurposing old items
• Buying only what we need
• Donating items that we no longer use instead of throwing them away

Check out the Reducing Your Waste page for details.