Downtown shared waste container pilot
Starting in 2026, Guelph's Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program will begin construction along Wyndham St. N., including the installation of a new waste collection system over the next several years. We’re acting now to ensure that waste collection in the Downtown is easier to understand, more efficient, environmentally friendly, and aligned with upcoming regulations. These improvements are designed to enhance the experience for everyone—businesses, residents, and visitors alike.
We're launching a pilot program to test new shared waste sites at three locations:
- the Macdonell Street lot,
- the laneway between 72 and 80 Macdonell Street, and
- Wilson Street.
We're seeking businesses and residents in the surrounding area to participate in the pilot program for free.
Pilot program has been extended!
Thanks to positive feedback from businesses and residents, the shared bins will stay at the three pilot locations through the winter of 2025- 2026.
Our staff will continue to work with users and maintain sites throughout the winter to encourage good waste disposal habits and ensure the cleanliness and functionality of the sites as we prepare for permanent solutions as part of the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal.
We'll be sure to keep registered participants informed as the program evolves.
To share an issue or complaint about a shared waste site please complete this short form or you may email downtownwaste@guelph.ca or contact Service Guelph at 519-822-1260. (TTY 519-826-9771)
Who's Listening
Jordyn Divok, Circular Economy Specialist, City of Guelph
Phases
Decision to continue
Downtown Shared Waste Pilot – To be continued!
The City’s Shared Waste Container Pilot program will continue into the new year! Thanks to positive feedback from businesses and residents, the shared bins will stay at these three downtown locations throughout the winter of 2025-2026:
- Macdonell Street parking lot
- Laneway between 72 and 80 Macdonell Street
- Wilson Street
During this extension, City staff will work with the community to keep these sites accessible through winter and encourage good waste disposal habits. This pilot is one of the first of its kind in Canada and shows our city’s leadership in managing waste in busy areas. Extending the program through winter will help us test its durability and share lessons locally and nationally as we move toward smarter, more sustainable waste solutions and prepare for permanent shared sites to be installed during Downtown Infrastructure Renewal construction beginning on Wyndham street in spring of 2026.
If there is a change in the program, registered users will receive plenty of advance notice and clear instructions on what to do next.
We're still accepting new participants from businesses and residents in the areas surrounding pilot sites!
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