NOW AVAILABLE: Request larger, smaller, and/or bear resistant carts
Automated garbage and organics collection has started in North Cowichan.
New garbage trucks have replaced our aging fleet. Approximately 10,000 homes have received new carts that work with the new trucks’ mechanical arms.
With the automation program now underway, stay up to date and ask questions at
ConnectNorthCowichan.ca/autocarts
About automated collection
Automated collection uses mechanical arms to lift and dump bins at the roadside, and better protects the health and safety of employees.
The new collection trucks require new garbage and organics carts that are compatible with the mechanical arms. These were delivered to curbside customers in April/May.
Along with the improvement to worker health and safety, there are a number of benefits for residents under this new service including:
- New, uniform carts.
- Higher weight restrictions on waste.
- Opportunity for new services such as roadside yard waste collection, and larger capacity garbage carts to accommodate bigger families (for additional cost).
Curbside carts
In February 2024, residents were given an opportunity to upsize their new garbage and organics carts, for a higher annual service fee. Homeowners who did not request larger carts will have received the default 80L garbage and 80L organics cart. After automated service begins, residents may find that the cart size they requested does not meet their household's needs.
September 2 2025: Residents now have the opportunity to either upsize or downsize curbside carts, subject to an administrative fee. Availability may depend upon supply. Note - larger carts and bear resistant carts have a higher annual service fee, and can only be requested by property owners.
NOW AVAILABLE: Request larger, smaller, and/or bear resistant carts
Recycling your old waste bins
Wondering what to do with your old garbage and organics bins? We have some ideas!
- Reuse! Store tools or other items indoors and outside with different sized bins.
- Take a bin, Leave a bin: We’re hosting a collection event where unwanted bins can be dropped off, and picked up by others who may want them.
- Saturday, Oct 18, 2025
- 9am – 3pm
- 2975 Sprott Rd. (this is the parking lot adjacent the North Cowichan public works yard)
Only plastic garbage/organics bins will be accepted. Ensure bins are rinsed out before drop off.
