It's a question many of us ponder as we stand at the curb, bins in hand: 'Am I putting the right thing out on the right day?' Keeping up with waste and recycling schedules can sometimes feel like a puzzle, especially when services change. Recently, many residents have noticed a shift in their waste collection provider. As of July 1, 2021, WCA Waste Corporation transitioned to Green for Life Environmental, or GFL. While the trucks might sport a new, signature green look and a new greeting when you call their center, the core services and the familiar phone number remain the same. So, don't be surprised by the GFL logo; your collection schedule is still in effect.
Speaking of schedules, it's always good to have a quick refresher. GFL aims to have services completed between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm, but they do start dispatching trucks as early as 6:30 am. To ensure your items are collected, it's wise to have them curbside by 6:30 am on your service days. For household waste, Wednesday is your primary collection day, and it's important to remember this is for the 95-gallon GFL TRASH Cart only. Anything outside that specific cart won't be collected on Wednesdays. Saturdays are a bit more versatile, accommodating both household waste and bulk/heavy trash, as well as tree and yard waste.
When it comes to what goes where, the guidelines are there to help. For yard waste, think leaves, grass clippings, and branches – up to six bags or bundles per residence, with individual items not exceeding 40 lbs. Branches should be no longer than four feet and tied securely. Tree trunks, however, are a no-go for this collection. Bulk and heavy trash also have their limits, with up to four items or containers per household. Appliances and furniture are generally accepted, but with important caveats: refrigerators need their Freon drained and tagged by a professional, grills must be ash-free, and water heaters drained. On the flip side, construction debris, hazardous waste, tires, and dead animals are strictly prohibited. It’s always best to check the 'Accepted' and 'Not Accepted' lists to be a thoughtful neighbor and ensure smooth collection.
Now, about recycling. This is an area where many communities have seen significant changes. Effective May 30, 2020, recycling services were actually cancelled, and the GFL recycling carts were collected. The decision, made by the Board, stemmed from rising processing and pickup costs coupled with a decreasing market for recyclables. After reviewing the nearly $24,000 annual cost, the Board opted to reallocate those funds towards other community benefits that offer more long-term value. While curbside recycling might not be available, the announcement does point towards 'RECYCLING Drop-Off Locations' for those seeking opportunities for hazardous waste disposal or donating working appliances and electronics. It's a reminder that while some services evolve, alternatives often exist.
If you ever have a question or encounter an issue, GFL's Call Center is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm at (281) 368-8397. You can also find more information and answers to common queries in the 'Frequently Asked Questions' section. It's all about staying informed and making the process as straightforward as possible for everyone.
