Starting January 5, 2026, solid waste collection in the Township of Russell will become fully automated, bringing garbage pickup in line with the municipality’s current green bin system. 

Between November 10 and November 28, 2025, every household in the township will receive a new 120-litre black bin delivered directly to their residence. These bins will be used for automated garbage collection. 

The Township is also exploring the possibility of offering a larger 240-litre black bin for residents who wish to upgrade. More details about this option will be shared once available. 

Residents of multi-unit buildings that currently use bag tags will receive specific instructions on how the new automated system will apply to them. 

What Residents Should Know

For now, residents may begin using the new black bins before January; however, only one bag should be placed in each bin to limit weight, as collection will still be done manually. Additional garbage bags may still be placed at the curb, but stickers will be required for each extra bag. 

Starting January 5, 2026, only waste placed inside the black bin will be collected, loose garbage bags will no longer be picked up, garbage tags will no longer be required or accepted, and automated trucks will handle collection, so bins must be positioned correctly. 

How to Place Your Bin

Residents should place their black bins the same way as their green bins, with the wheels facing away from the street, and leave at least two feet (60 centimetres) of space between bins, recycling boxes, or other obstacles to allow trucks to lift them safely. 

Solid waste collection will continue on a weekly schedule, which will be reviewed after one year to assess efficiency and community feedback.