Solid Waste Management FAQ
Dive into our FAQs for guidance on sorting, recycling, disposal, and more!
Please be aware that solid waste guidelines may vary depending on your location, as Windsor and West Hants currently operate under separate Solid Waste Bylaws. Rest assured, efforts are underway to consolidate these Bylaws for greater clarity and consistency.
Q: How do I sort my waste for disposal?
A: West Hants residents have access to a user-friendly resource known as R6RECYCLES. This free app serves as a valuable tool that provides answers to your specific sorting questions, making it easier than ever to determine where each item should go! The app will give you easy-to-follow instructions on where to place the item for disposal.
Q: What is the schedule for curbside waste collection in my area?
A: The best way to check your personal curbside waste collection schedule is through our R6RECYCLES app. After downloading the app, enter your address to access personalized collection information, and the app will provide your collection schedule based on your location.
- In addition to accessing your collection schedule, you can also sign up for collection reminders! This feature ensures you never miss a collection day, as the app will send you notifications ahead of your scheduled pickup.
Q: What is the process for bulky waste pickup?
A: You can swap ONE (1) bag of garbage for ONE (1) non-metal bulky item on your regular garbage collection day (bi-weekly), all year long! Please note: some weight and size restrictions do apply. Please review Curbside Guidelines on your Waste Mailout.
- To learn how to dispose of bulky metal items, visit: https://westhants.ca/waste-and-recycling.html
Q: How do I dispose of metal waste?
A: Metal Collection Week occurs once per year, typically in June. There is no limit to the number of metal pieces placed curbside, but some restrictions do apply. Learn more here: Metal disposal in WHRM
- Please note: Fridges, freezers, air conditioners, water coolers and other items that contain refrigerants can be tricky items to dispose of. Because of a chemical they contain called CFCs (freeon), they fall under the 'Household Hazardous Waste' (HHW) category, and some extra steps will be required. Click here to read more on the disposal of items containing refrigerant.
Q: How do I dispose of hazardous waste, electronic waste, and other items that are not collected curbside?
A: For a detailed list of items that are not collected curbside and instructions on how to dispose of hazardous waste and electronic waste, please refer to our website guide. This guide highlights what items are NOT included in curbside collection and provides specific instructions on the proper disposal methods.
- If you can't find the item you're looking for, try searching for it on the R6RECYCLES app!
Q: What should I do with yard waste, such as grass clippings and leaves?
A:
- For AREA 1, AREA 2 & AREA 3:
Up to 3 paper bags of leaf & yard waste are permitted next to your green cart on your compost day (bi-weekly). One paper bag can be swapped for one bundle of brush. Brush should be neatly tied into bundles, with branches no thicker than 3 inches, bundles no longer than 4ft, and no heavier than 55 lbs. - For WINDSOR AREA:
Windsor residents have a special collection on the last Monday of every month (April - November), allowing 2 bundles of brush (brush should be neatly tied into bundles, with branches no thicker than 3 inches, bundles no longer than 4ft, and no heavier than 55 lbs.), and an unlimited number of bags containing leaves and grass clippings. Paper yard waste bags or transparent plastic bags can be used. Note that disposal of trees and large amounts of hedge or shrubbery is not permitted under this special collection.
- Alternate Yard Waste Disposal Options:
If your yard waste doesn't qualify for curbside collection due to size or quantity, you have self-haul options:
- West Hants Landfill (1569 Walton Woods Road): Disposal of yard waste is free.
- Valley Waste Transfer Station (Kentville Industrial Park): Tipping fees apply; refer to link for details.
- Alternate Yard Waste Disposal Options:
Q: How can I report illegal dumping or littering in my area?
A: The protocols may vary depending on whether the event was witnessed. In both cases, be safe - do not touch or remove any items, and contact the WHRM Bylaw Enforcement Officers at 902-798-8391; Option #7. Provide your name, address & phone number.
- IF WITNESSED: Write down license plate #, description of the vehicle, person(s), items dumped, and the time and location it happened.
- NOT WITNESSED: Provide the location to Bylaw Enforcement Officers and give a brief description of the concern.
Q: I am a business owner in West Hants and need more information on how to manage solid waste. Where can I find resources and guidelines?
A: Businesses can find resources on how to manage their solid waste here: https://westhants.ca/fast-facts-for-businesses.html