06/10/2026
It’s Clear in Queens!
Over the past several months, it’s been clear that residents of Queens County have been doing their part to understand the enhanced recycling program for Nova Scotia, and sorting their waste correctly - using clear bags for garbage and black garbage bags as privacy bags for personal hygiene items and medical waste. When the transition to clear bags from black garbage bags began back in January, 2026, to ensure that people had some time to understand the new rules for collection, all waste was collected over a 6-month period.
Starting July 1, 2026, clear bags are required for garbage. There is a limit of 1 black garbage bag per collection day, and a total of up to 6 garbage bags per collection day. If more than black bag is placed out for collection at a residential property, only 1 will be collected, and the others will be left, with a sticker advise that only one black bag is permitted. It is resident’s responsibility to bring uncollected materials in from the curb for proper sorting and preparation for their next collection day.
*** Recyclables still go in blue bags (sorted into paper and fibre, and containers - plastic, foil, etc.), and aren't included int he 6 bag maximum for garbage.
To learn more about waste collection, go to https://www.regionofqueens.com/municipal-services/works/waste-management/clear-bags/
Download the R6Recycles app wherever you get your apps to take the guesswork out of what goes where. It provides helpful information about whether something is garbage, recyclable, hazardous waste, and “where it goes”.
Or visit our website and use the Wizard! Type in the item you have sorting questions about, and it will tell you how to dispose of it: https://www.regionofqueens.com/municipal-services/works/waste-management/waste-collection-schedule/
Bylaw 13: Solid Waste Management is online here: https://www.regionofqueens.com/council-governance/our-bylaws/
