Recycling Changes for 2026: What You Need to Know

The Town of Stouffville is preparing for the transition to a new cart-based Blue Box recycling system, in alignment with Ontario’s mandated Producer Responsibility framework. The new program begins the week of January 5, 2026 and introduces bi-weekly collection using large wheeled recycling carts.

Residents can now view the 2026 Waste Collection Calendar online.

As part of the transition:

• There will be no recycling collection during the week of December 29, 2025.

• The final collection using small blue bins will take place the week of December 22, 2025.

• Bi-weekly collection using the new recycling carts begins the week of January 5, 2026.

To assist with the transition, GFL will collect overflow recycling materials placed outside of the new cart (e.g. bagged recyclables or bundled cardboard) on residents’ first scheduled collection day in January. This one-time overflow pickup is intended to help residents adjust to the new cart system.

Residents are encouraged to repurpose their old small blue bins for personal use, such as storage containers. However, for those who no longer wish to keep them, a special curbside collection will take place during the week of February 2, 2026.

To participate:

Place old, unwanted blue bins at the curb by 7 a.m. on your regular collection day that week.

Bins must be empty; those containing material will not be collected.

A separate GFL truck will collect the old bins for recycling.

Residents who prefer a smaller recycling cart may now request a 65-gallon cart in place of the standard size.
Cart exchange requests can be submitted:
Online (preferred): circularmaterials.ca/stouffville
By phone: GFL at 1-833-779-4351
Cart exchanges are expected to begin in late December or early January.

These changes are part of the Province of Ontario’s shift to a standardized, producer-funded recycling system that will improve efficiency and consistency across municipalities. The Town of Stouffville thanks all residents for their cooperation and support during this transition.

For questions regarding cart exchanges or collection, please contact GFL at 1-833-779-4351 or N6Recycling@gflenv.com