With spring in full bloom, the City of Oshawa is urging residents to take an active role in maintaining clean, safe, and welcoming neighborhoods. A tidy community is not just the responsibility of the city – it is a shared task that requires collective effort. By participating in various programs, each person’s contribution can make a significant impact on the environment and the community as a whole.
Yard Waste Collection Returns
As homeowners and residents begin their sSpring Clean-Up, one of the first tasks is cleaning up their yards. The City of Oshawa reminds residents that yard waste collection has resumed and will continue every other week, coinciding with regular garbage pickup days. To ensure proper disposal, yard waste should be placed in paper bags or in rigid, reusable, open-top containers clearly labeled for yard waste. For detailed collection schedules, residents can visit the official website at oshawa.ca/YardWaste or use the Durham Region Waste app for the most up-to-date information on waste collection.
This seasonal collection program helps keep neighborhoods tidy, reducing unsightly waste and providing an easy, environmentally friendly way to dispose of leaves, branches, and other organic matter. By following the guidelines for yard waste, residents can contribute to keeping Oshawa’s streets and green spaces clean and healthy.
Large Item Collection
For those cleaning out homes or moving, the City of Oshawa also offers a large item collection service. This service is available at no additional cost for residents living in single-family dwellings, semi-detached homes, duplexes, or buildings with eight or fewer units that receive municipal waste collection services. By properly disposing of large items, residents not only keep their homes clean but also prevent illegal dumping and environmental hazards.
Residents who wish to schedule a large item collection must book the service online or through Service Oshawa at least two days prior to their regular waste collection day. Booking the service helps ensure that large items, such as old furniture or appliances, are properly disposed of, reducing clutter and maintaining community cleanliness. To book or learn more, residents can visit oshawa.ca/LIC or call 905-436-3311.
Mayor’s Clean-Up Events
One of the most exciting ways residents can get involved is by participating in the Mayor’s clean-up events. These community-focused events are an opportunity for residents to come together and make a difference in public spaces. The upcoming clean-up dates are Saturday, May 9, Saturday, June 20, and Saturday, September 12, with specific events happening in downtown Oshawa and at the Second Marsh. These clean-up events will be led by volunteers who will receive supplies, including gloves, maps, and garbage bags to help them get started.
To register for the Mayor’s clean-up events or to learn more about how to participate, residents can visit oshawa.ca/MayorsCleanup. Whether it’s picking up trash, removing graffiti, or beautifying parks, these events offer a hands-on way to show community pride and care.
See It, Report It!
Finally, the city relies on its residents to be its eyes and ears when it comes to identifying issues in public spaces. Whether it’s illegal dumping, graffiti, or unauthorized camping, the community is encouraged to report these issues directly to Service Oshawa. Issues like discarded needles, litter in parks, and loitering can be reported online at service.oshawa.ca or by calling 905-436-3311.
The city’s “See It, Report It” initiative empowers residents to take action in keeping Oshawa clean and safe. By reporting such issues, residents help the city address concerns in a timely manner, ensuring public spaces remain healthy and welcoming.
