Many services in Toronto's busy cityscape are meant to make life easy for locals and visitors. Drop-off centers are significant for encouraging recycling, eliminating trash, and keeping the neighbourhood clean. Suppose you're trying to clean up your house, get rid of dangerous items, or just recycle. In that case, you need to know these depots' hours of operation and other important information to have a smooth and successful visit.

This article will tell you everything you need to know about Toronto's drop-off depots, such as where they are, when they're open and what kinds of things they take. Whether you've lived in Toronto for a long time or are just moving there, this guide will simplify the drop-off process and help make the city cleaner and greener. Come with us as we learn all about these critical neighbourhood resources. It will be easy for you to visit again after this.

Operating Hours of Waste Drop-Off Depots in Toronto

Toronto's Drop-Off Depots operate on different schedules depending on the type of waste being disposed of, so it’s important to check the hours before making a trip.

Normal Operating Hours for Drop-Off Depots

Toronto has seven Drop-Off Depots, each with different hours based on the type of waste being dropped off. Here’s a quick breakdown:

1. General Waste Drop-Off Hours:

  • Bermondsey Depot: Open 24 hours from Monday, 6 a.m. to Friday, 9 p.m. and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • Ingram Depot: Open continuously from Monday, 6 a.m. to Saturday, 12:30 p.m.
  • Other Depots (Commissioners, Disco, Dufferin, Scarborough, Victoria Park): Open Monday to Friday, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., with some offering Saturday hours.

2. Household Hazardous and Electronic Waste Hours:

  • Tuesday to Friday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Saturday: 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

3. Closed on Sundays & Holiday Hours May Vary

Depots close on Sundays and vary on holidays. You should check for changes before visiting. Holiday Impacts on Waste Disposal Hours

Holiday Impacts on Waste Disposal Hours

Toronto's garbage collectors may adjust their schedules during the holidays. Daytime residential curbside collections rarely change. However, nighttime multi-residential front-end and residential curbside collections are usually delayed until the next day. i.e, If a holiday falls on a Monday, numerous home collections are moved to Tuesday, Tuesday to Wednesday, etc. The rest of the week was regular. December 25 and January 1 are holidays; hence, Drop-Off Depots and transfer terminals are usually closed. This makes trash, yard waste, household hazardous waste, recyclables, and electronics more challenging to dump off. Residents can check the municipal website or call 311 for holiday schedules and service modifications.

Seasonal Changes in Depot Hours

The Drop-Off Depots in Toronto function with a standard operating schedule all year that separates different waste categories from each other. The City-operated and its contract vehicles obtain priority service during peak periods between 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. - 5 p.m but this can lead to increased wait times for residents. The end-of-day procedures run at overnight facilities from 11:30 p.m. to midnight but might cause minor inconvenience for users. Resident must check the municipal website or dial 311 to obtain the current information before arranging their visit.

Drop-off Depot Locations in Toronto

Toronto has multiple Waste Drop-Off Depots conveniently located across the city, each serving specific neighborhoods to make waste disposal easier for residents.

Key Depot Locations in the City of Toronto

Toronto has several Waste Drop-Off Depots across the city, each serving different areas. Here’s a quick list of key locations:

1. Bermondsey Depot – Serves East York (188 Bermondsey Rd.)
2. Commissioners Depot – Located in downtown Toronto (400 Commissioners St.)
3. Disco Depot – Covers Etobicoke (120 Disco Rd.)
4. Dufferin Depot – Serves North York (35 Vanley Cres.)
5. Scarborough Depot – Located in Scarborough (1 Transfer Pl.)
6. Ingram Depot – Covers York (50 Ingram Dr.)
7. Victoria Park Depot – Another option in Scarborough (3350 Victoria Park Ave.)

Transfer Stations vs. Drop-Off Depot Centre

Transfer Stations and Drop-Off Depots both handle the city’s waste, but they serve different purposes. Drop-off locations are designed for residents to directly drop off garbage, recycling, yard waste, and hazardous materials, as well as small household items for proper disposal or recycling. These sites have specific hours and rules for what they accept.

Transfer Stations, on the other hand, are larger facilities where waste from collection trucks is temporarily stored before being transported to landfills or processing centers. While Drop-Off Depots are open to the public, Transfer Stations mainly serve waste management operations and oversized items and are not typically accessible to residents.

Types of Waste Than Can Be Disposed of at Toronto Depots

Toronto's Drop-Off Depots accept a wide range of waste materials, including household garbage, recycling, yard waste, and hazardous items, but residents should review the city's guidelines to ensure proper disposal.

Accepted Items at Drop-Off Depots

Toronto's Drop-Off Depots accept a variety of waste materials, including household garbage, recycling, yard waste, organics, and small household items. They also handle household hazardous waste like batteries, paint, and chemicals, as well as electronic waste or appliances such as old computers and TVs. Some locations accept bulky items like furniture and mattresses. Each depot has specific guidelines on what can be dropped off, so it’s best to check the City of Toronto’s website before visiting.

Prohibited Waste: What Not to Bring

Toronto’s Drop-Off Depots have strict rules on what cannot be disposed of. Industrial hazardous waste, asbestos, biomedical waste (like syringes), explosives, and radioactive materials are strictly prohibited. Large propane tanks over 20 lbs, excessive construction debris (like concrete and drywall), and large commercial waste loads are also not accepted. These items require specialized disposal methods, so residents should check the City of Toronto’s website or call 311 for proper drop-off locations.

Special Considerations for Electronics and Household Hazardous Waste

Household hazardous waste (HHW) must be handled carefully to protect people and the environment. These materials cannot be placed in regular garbage or recycling bins and must be taken to designated Drop-Off Depots that accept HHW. Householders are allowed to dispose of various items safely at restricted collection events that certain depots organize. A proper disposal process calls for keeping materials inside their original containers along with their labels remaining attached. The City of Toronto allows residents to check website guidelines for HHW drop-off information before destination selection.

Fees Associated with Using Drop-Off Depots

Toronto’s Drop-Off Depots charge fees for certain waste types based on material and weight, though some items—like household hazardous waste and electronics—can be dropped off for free.

Understanding Fees for Waste Disposal

Toronto’s Drop-Off Depots charge fees for certain types of waste for disposal, depending on the material and quantity. Free disposal is available for household hazardous trash, electronics, and recyclables, although rubbish, yard waste, and large items may incur a weight-based fee. Some depots charge minimums, and fees vary.

Exceptions: Free Services for Certain Items

Some waste materials can be dropped off for free at Toronto’s Drop-Off Depots. These include:

  • Household Hazardous Waste (HHW)
  • Electronic Waste
  • Blue Bin Recycling Items
  • Green Bin Organic Waste
  • Metal Items & Appliances (Without CFCs)
  • Tires

Payment Methods Accepted at Depots

Toronto Drop-Off Depots accept credit, debit, and Toronto garbage account payments for disposal fees. Payment choices vary for each depot, so check ahead. Some depots accept cash.

Utilizing Depot Services for Business Waste Management

Toronto’s Drop-Off Depots offer waste disposal services for businesses, but fees, material restrictions, and regulations differ from residential use, so companies should check requirements beforehand.

Toronto’s Drop-Off Depots provide waste disposal options for businesses, but fees and regulations differ from residential services. Businesses can dispose of various materials, including garbage, recycling, yard waste, and hazardous waste, at select depots. However, large commercial loads may require a City of Toronto waste account for billing.

Certain depots accept hazardous waste, while others handle electronic debris and metal scrap. Since each facility has specific material and weight restrictions, businesses must verify depot requirements in advance. Companies managing significant amounts of toxic waste may need to comply with additional regulations to ensure safe and environmentally responsible disposal.

What Should You Know Before Visiting a Drop-Off Depot?

Your drop-off process at the Drop-Off Depot will succeed when you properly organize waste while securing all loose objects and checking for site restrictions.

Preparing Your Load for Disposal

Pre-sorting garbage allows you to minimize your need for rushed trips on garbage day. Consider these crucial points:

  • Sorting Materials: The necessary time reduction in waste processing requires separate disposal of trash, recyclables, compost, yard waste, textiles, and toxic waste.
  • Hazardous Materials: Safe handling and disposal require keeping hazardous goods in their original, labeled containers.
  • Securing Loose Items: Placing loose materials in bags or bins helps prevent spills during transport and unloading.
  • Donations: Items in good condition, including clothing and other textiles, should be considered for donation to appropriate facilities or programs.
  • Business Waste: Businesses with large quantities of waste should verify weight limits and material restrictions before visiting a depot.

Required Documentation and Permits

Some waste disposal services at Toronto’s Drop-Off Depots require specific documentation or permits, especially for businesses or large commercial loads. If a business plans to dispose of large amounts of waste, hazardous materials, or specialized items, it may need a City of Toronto waste account for billing and tracking. Certain materials, such as construction debris or industrial waste, may require additional permits or approvals before disposal. It’s always best to check the City of Toronto’s website or call 311 to confirm what paperwork is needed before visiting a depot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of waste can I dispose of at the garbage dump?

At the garbage dump, residents can dispose of household waste, renovation waste, yard waste, organic waste, and mixed recyclables. Please ensure that waste items are sorted appropriately before drop-off.

Are there any restrictions on the amount of garbage I can bring to the depot?

Yes, there may be restrictions on the amount of excess garbage you can bring to the drop-off depot. Residents are advised to take only what is necessary and to check the guidelines provided by the City of Toronto regarding limits.

Can I drop off hazardous waste items like paint cans and fluorescent bulbs at the depot?

Yes, hazardous waste items such as paint cans, fluorescent bulbs, and aerosol products can be dropped off at designated locations within the garbage dump. Please check the City’s website for specific instructions on hazardous waste disposal.

What should I do if I have large items to dispose of that won’t fit in my curb pickup?

For large items that won't fit in curb pickup, residents can take them to a garbage dump or drop-off depot. Some items may require a tag for disposal, so it's advisable to check the City of Toronto's guidelines beforehand.

How does the weather affect the operation of garbage dumps in Toronto?

Weather conditions may lead to minor delays in operations at garbage dumps. Please note that It is recommended to check for updates on the City of Toronto's website regarding any weather-related changes to dump hours.

Is there a fee for using the garbage dump in Toronto?

The use of garbage dumps for residential waste is generally free for Toronto residents. However, certain items may incur a fee, so it's best to confirm on the City’s website regarding any potential charges.

How can I divert organic waste from landfills?

To divert organic waste from landfills, residents can utilize the green bin program offered by the City of Toronto. This program allows you to dispose of organic materials, which are then processed into compost.

Can I recycle cardboard and scrap metal at the drop-off depot?

Yes, cardboard and scrap metal can be recycled at the drop-off depot. Ensure that cardboard is flattened and clean before disposal, and check for specific guidelines on scrap metal recycling.