Courtenay solid waste collection zone changes coming in July

Emterra’s new fleet of automated curbside collection vehicles is driving big improvements in Courtenay – including more efficient collection routes. As a result, the City of Courtenay is planning adjustments to solid waste collection schedules and zones starting July 2.

The changes are part of the City of Courtenay’s ongoing efforts to streamline service and align schedules with regional partners.

Automated curbside collection was introduced in Courtenay 2024, followed by the launch of North America’s first fully electric solid waste collection fleet by service provider Emterra later that year. The transition to biweekly garbage and weekly organics collection has contributed to a 40 per cent reduction in landfill waste and a substantial drop in greenhouse gas emissions.

This shift has allowed the City of Courtenay and Emterra to look for ways to further optimize operations. The updated collection schedule reflects these improvements and introduces new collection zones A, B, C and D across Courtenay.

What residents need to know:

• New collection zones: Many households will see a change to their regular collection day. Updated zone maps and schedules will be delivered by mail, published online, printed in the newspaper, and accessible through the Courtenay Collects app.
• Start date: The new schedule takes effect July 2, 2025.
• Collection frequency remains the same: Organics will continue to be collected weekly, with garbage and recycling alternating biweekly.
• Rotating calendar: The updated schedule will continue using the “add-a-day” calendar, shifting collection by one day after each statutory holiday.

Chris Thompson, the City’s Manager of Public Works Services, said automated collection has increased the reliability of curbside collection services in Courtenay. “We’re seeing a much more regular and dependable curbside service, with far fewer delays compared to previous years,” said Thompson. “We had anticipated making this schedule adjustment mid-way through 2025 as Emterra refined their collection routes, and that’s why the previous 2025 schedule covered only January through June. We encourage Courtenay residents to check the new schedule so they’re ready for collection day starting in July. “

The updated calendar will be distributed by mail and posted on the City’s website, in the newspaper and through the Courtenay Collects app. To get the updated collection schedule and sign up for reminders to your mobile device, email or phone, visit www.courtenay.ca/solid-waste or contact Operational Services at 250-338-1525.