Important Update: Garbage Collection Changes Effective July 6, 2026
Beginning July 6, one garbage bag per collection will be collected at no cost. Garbage tags are required for the second and third bags. New green garbage tags will be introduced with a transition period. Details below.
Quick Links
- Collection Zone and Schedule
- Sorting Guide
- Recycle Coach App
- Missed Pick-ups
- Garbage Tag Update and Transition
- Related Information and Resources
Miller Waste picks up your garbage, recycling, and green bin organic waste. Meaford has been recognized as having one of the highest waste diversion rates in the province, thanks to your participation in our recycling and green bin programs. Here you can find information on pickup schedules, drop off locations, and what materials belong in the green bin, blue box, or garbage can.
Note: All items must be placed at the curb by 7 am. Collection crews may begin in any area of the zone, so pickup times may vary from week to week.
View your collection zone and schedule
You can view your collection schedule by viewing the 2026 Collection Guide or by downloading the Recycle Coach app.
View your collection zone and schedule
What goes where
Use the Recycle Coach app to access collection schedules, receive reminder notifications, or help answer questions about what items go where.
Please note that the municipality does not provide recycling or organics bins.
Download the Recycle Coach App
Meaford has launched Recycle Coach, the new waste and recycling app that replaces the former Meaford Waste App. Recycle Coach provides your collection schedule, reminders, sorting help, and service alerts—all in one place.
Download Recycle Coach:
Open the app and enter your address to get started.
Missed pick-ups for garbage, recycling and organic waste
All items must be placed at the curb by 7 am. Collection crews may begin in any area of the zone, so pickup times may vary from week to week. Collection hours are 7 am to 7 pm.
For missed pick-ups, please contact:Garbage Tag Update and Transition
The Municipality is introducing new green garbage tags as part of the updated garbage collection program.
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Orange garbage tags remain on sale until June 30, 2026
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Green garbage tags go on sale beginning July 2, 2026
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Both orange and green tags will be accepted at the curb until December 31, 2026
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Beginning January 1, 2027, only green garbage tags will be accepted
FAQ
| When will new colour tags be available for purchase? |
| The new green garbage tags will be available for purchase starting July 2, 2026. |
| Will the current orange tags continue to be accepted at the curb? |
| Yes. The Municipality will accept both orange and new green garbage tags at the curb for residents until December 31, 2026. This transition period is intended to allow residents to use any remaining orange tags they already have. |
| Will there be a transition period where both colour tags will be accepted? |
| Yes. A transition period will be in place from July 6, 2026 to December 31, 2026, during which both orange and green garbage tags will be accepted for resident use. |
| Will refunds be offered? |
| Refunds will not be offered for unused orange tags. Residents are encouraged to use their existing supply during the transition period ending December 31, 2026. |
| Will the Municipality continue to use external vendors for tag sales? |
| Yes. The Municipality will continue to use external vendors, in addition to municipal locations, for the sale of garbage tags. |
Related information and resources
| Curbside collection |
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Residents may use municipal bins or personal "Cottage Bins" for waste collection. All bins must:
For bagged garbage:
Note: The Municipality is not responsible for bin damage. |
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Garbage bag tags |
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Garbage collection occurs every other week. Residents may place up to three garbage bags at the curb per collection day.
Note: Tags are only required for garbage. There is no cost or tag required for recycling or green bin collection. Garbage Tag Update and Transition The Municipality is introducing new green garbage tags as part of the updated garbage collection program.
The cost of each bag tag is $4.00 ($5.50 starting July 2, 2026), and can be purchased at participating locations:
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Inclement weather and waste collection |
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Winter weather in Meaford can bring heavy snowfall, whiteouts, and freezing rain, making roads hazardous. When this happens, waste collection may be delayed or canceled for safety reasons. The Municipality contracts Miller Waste Systems for garbage, recycling, and compost collection. During severe weather, Miller Waste assesses road conditions and determines if collection should proceed. If service is disrupted, they notify Municipal staff, who then inform residents of the next collection date. Miller Waste handles thousands of pick-ups weekly using specialized trucks. Bad weather can impact this complex system, and safety is the top priority. Please be patient and understanding during delays. Get real-time updates through our Municipal website, social media, or the waste app (available for Apple and Android). |
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Waste transfer station |
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Meaford residents can use the Miller Waste Transfer Station at 2085 20th Ave. East, Owen Sound. Accepted materials include garbage, recycling, cardboard, scrap metal, tires, and more. Fees may apply. Debit and credit accepted. Hours:
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Resources
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