Automated Curbside Collection Launching September 9

The City of Duncan will begin using its new, automated truck for collecting garbage, recycling, and organics starting on September 9. The automated truck will use mechanical arms to lift and empty collection carts, making collection more efficient and safer for workers.

A set of three new wheeled carts will be delivered to City residences during the month of August. Some residents will receive carts before others do, including immediate neighbours or people on opposite sides of the same street. Residents should continue using their existing bins until September 9, when automated collection begins. 

Here are the most important things that residents need to know about using their new carts:

• There are no changes to the collection schedule or routes.
• The new recycling and organics carts each have a capacity of 240 litres, and the new garbage cart has a capacity of 100 litres.
• Homes with registered secondary suites will receive two sets of carts.
• Collection carts must stay at the address where they were delivered – carts are assigned to specific addresses using serial numbers and RFID tags that are linked to utility accounts.
• On collection day, carts must be at the curb by 7:30 am and must be spaced 3 feet from other objects, including objects overhead (such as branches).
• Yard waste may now be included in the organics cart (with size limits on branches).
• If residents haven’t received their carts by September 3, they should contact the Public Works Department at publicworks@duncan.ca or 250-746-5321.
• After 90 days of testing out the new carts, residents may request a second cart or set of carts if they need more capacity (fees apply).
   Residents will receive a detailed information booklet along with their new carts in August, and can find information at any time at www.duncan.ca/curbside.

As residents adjust to the new system, they are also encouraged to take action against plastic contamination in the region’s organic waste (compost). Most compost bags/liners commonly sold as “compostable” or “biodegradable” actually contain plastics and are not allowed in composting facilities under the BC Organic Matter Recycling Regulation. Instead of using compostable bags, line your kitchen bin with newspaper or paper towels, or try going liner-free!

Background:

• Duncan provides curbside collection of household waste to 1,285 households. The City decided to move to automated curbside collection in 2023 when a new garbage truck had to be ordered to replace the existing truck that was nearing the end of its life. Council decided to order an automated truck after community consultation.
• Some of the benefits of automated curbside collection include:
  • Reduced injuries to collection workers,
  • A more efficient and climate-resilient service,
  • Larger carts, and
  • The inclusion of yard waste in the organic carts.