Find Yarmouth’s waste, recycling and composting rules, pickup schedules and resources below.
At-a-glance
- Waste and recycling is collected curbside on scheduled days.
- Clear garbage bags only (solid-coloured bags rejected). One non-transparent privacy bag (max 20" x 22") allowed inside a clear bag for sanitary items.
- Recycling: 2 blue-bag system — one for paper, one for containers (glass, plastic, metal).
- Organics: Food and organics in green bin. To order, repair, or replace a green cart, contact Waste Check (902) 742-1312 or visit them at wastecheck.ca
- Special waste: Pharmaceuticals, household hazardous waste and electronics have separate programs — for more information you can contact Waste Check (902) 742-1312 or visit them at wastecheck.ca
- Business & multi-unit rules: Buildings with 5+ units are commercial and must provide appropriate bins and follow the Solid Waste Storage, Collection and Disposal By-Law.(221 KB)
Important changes and management
- As of Apr 1, 2024: only clear bags accepted at curb and transfer stations.
- As of Dec 1, 2025, recycling program managed by Circular Materials — more items are accepted. Click here to visit Circular Materials’ website for details and accepted materials list.
Waste Separation
Learn how to sort garbage, recycling, organics and waste wood, and where to drop off pharmaceuticals (e.g., needles) and electronics. Visit the Waste Check sorting guide page.
Collection Schedule
See when solid household waste will be picked up in your area. For more information go to Collection Schedule.
Composting
Learn about the benefits of saving organic waste, and why we compost. Visit the Waste Check composting page.
Household Hazardous Waste
Find out what to do with bleach, propane tanks, motor oil, and other hazardous materials that don't belong in the regular trash. Visit the Waste Check Household Hazardous Waste page.
Solid Waste Park
The Yarmouth County Solid Waste Park (1932 Hardscratch Rd) is jointly owned by the Municipality of Yarmouth, the Municipality of Argyle and the Town of Yarmouth. The Town operates the on-site Compost Facility serving Yarmouth and Digby counties. Visit the Waste Park Facebook page.
Waste Park Services and rules
- All residents and businesses must sort waste into three streams: garbage, recycling and organics.
- Residual garbage goes to the Transfer Station; recycling is sent to Scotia Recycling Ltd., Kentville.
- Residential hazardous materials (cleaners, pesticides, solvents, etc.) must be dropped off at the Waste Park for proper disposal.
- The C&D (construction & demolition) area separates wood, metals and asphalt shingles on site; remaining C&D materials are landfilled.
- Metals and white goods are baled and sold (currently to Limar Enterprises, NB).
- Waste wood is processed (chipped) on an annual cycle.
Fees and access
- Tipping and service fees apply. See Town Fees for current Waste Park rates, hours and accepted materials.
- Confirm acceptable materials, fees and hours before visiting.
Recycle Coach App
Looking for an easier way to manage your household waste? Download the free Waste Check Recycle Coach smartphone app from your favourite App Store. Get answers to all your waste/recycling questions instantly, including:
- A detailed pick-up schedule customized to your area with optional reminders to ensure you never lose track again
- Easy “What Goes Where?” search gives proper recycling/disposal information (no more guessing!)
- Keep important local contacts at your fingertips
- Find information on your local waste-handling facilities
- Get details on special dates and events in advance
