Residents can take advantage of the program from October 20 to November 28.
Fall brings colorful leaves, cozy sweaters, and the necessity of yard work. To assist with seasonal cleanup, Coquitlam residents who receive collection from the City can utilize free curbside pickup for extra yard waste starting October 20 through November 28.
During Coquitlam’s six-week unlimited yard trimmings collection program, residents can dispose of surplus green waste from seasonal cleanups, including fallen leaves, grass clippings, and pruned branches.
This biannual service eases seasonal yard work. Last year, the City collected over 440 tonnes of yard waste, keeping properties tidy and preventing storm drain blockages while converting waste into compost.
To participate, place extra yard trimmings in old garbage cans labeled with a Yard Trimmings sticker, in kraft paper bags, or in twine-tied bundles, and set them at the curb on the regular collection day. Stickers are available for free at Coquitlam City Hall’s Engineering counter and public libraries.
Ensure collection by having extra yard trimmings ready by 7:30 a.m. on collection day. Separate trucks will handle this waste, possibly at a different time than your Green Cart.
Green Carts should only be set out post-5:30 a.m. to avoid fines, even if containing only yard trimmings. Keep bundles under one meter in length with branches less than 7.5 centimeters in diameter. Weight should not exceed 20 kilograms per bag, can, or bundle.
Sod, rocks, soil, and plastic bags are not accepted. Food scraps belong in the Green Cart, not in kraft bags or other containers used for extra yard trimmings.
Position materials curbside without obstructing sidewalks or streets. If rain is forecasted, cover kraft bags with a tarp and delay setting out until collection morning. Avoid placing out yard waste before the week of October 20, as wet bags are tough to collect.
For full program details, visit coquitlam.ca/YardTrimmings.
Residents can also drop off green waste for free year-round at the United Boulevard Recycling and Waste Centre, 995 United Boulevard. Accepted items include yard trimmings and food waste, with proof of residency and annual limits applicable.
Set up collection reminders via email, phone, or app by visiting coquitlam.ca/ReCollect. The app is available for free download; search Coquitlam Curbside Collection in app stores.