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1. Can I get a larger garbage tote?

If you would like a larger tote, please call the CVRD Recycling Hotline at 250-746-2540 to be put on the tote request waitlist. Garbage totes larger than the standard 132L size will be subject to an additional annual service fee to ensure that all users pay their fair cost for garbage disposal.

2. Why wasn't my garbage collected?

If your tote is not collected on your scheduled pickup day, please revisit the tips for a successful pickup to ensure that you are correctly placing your materials at the curb. The most common issues are

1. Incorrect spacing. Please spaces totes 1m apart from other totes and surrounding objects such as cars, telephone poles, and utility boxes.
2. An overfilled tote. Totes cannot be collected correctly if they are overfilled or have materials placed on their lids. This is because the contents will spill when tipped, littering the street.
3. Totes that are facing the incorrect direction. These totes can be rejected as they pose a safety concern when contents are tipped into the collection truck

For up-to-date information about missed collections due to mechanical failures or weather-related disruptions, subscribe to CVRD newsflashes (signup here), download the Cowichan Recycles app or visit the CVRD Facebook page.

3. How can I reduce my household garbage?

Reducing your waste is very important considering the journey that your garbage takes before it is landfilled in Washington State. The CVRD aims to reduce residential waste from 358 kg per capita to 250 kg per capita to meet its goal for a zero-waste future. To learn some tips on how to reduce your waste, visit the Waste Management Education Page.

4. Why don't I receive curbside garbage services from the CVRD?

CVRD garbage collection is only provided to Electoral Areas D, E, F, G and I. Garbage collection in Areas A, B, C, and H will begin in June 2025 with the roll-out of the three-stream curbside collection. All Electoral Area residents will also receive weekly food and yard waste collection and monthly glass packaging collection when the service commences. To learn more about the project, visit Plan Your Cowichan.