Timmins approves hybrid rural waste plan, pending MECP approval

Timmins City Council has approved changes to rural waste services that would expand curbside pickup to some homes and convert three landfill sites to transfer stations, pending approval from Ontario’s Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP).

The city says the update aims to reduce illegal dumping and non‑compliant waste and to lower landfill use. It follows a review of landfill capacity, environmental regulations, and community feedback. Rural households that rely on small landfill sites around Timmins would see service changes if the province approves the proposal.

The hybrid model combines targeted curbside collection with transfer sites. Curbside waste and recycling pickup would expand to 65% of properties that now use the German Township Landfill—133 of 205 homes. The German Township, Evelyn Township, and Thornloe Township landfill sites would be transitioned into transfer sites.

The plan includes an agreement with Circular Materials to fund and manage community recycling depots, including depots at the Deloro Landfill and the Tisdale Transfer Site.

In early 2025, the Environmental Services Department reported significant capacity and compliance challenges at rural landfill sites. Council then directed staff to develop a detailed service delivery model for a hybrid approach using curbside service where feasible and transfer sites elsewhere.

“This hybrid model improves waste services for rural residents, making it easier to properly dispose of household waste and recycling,” said Ken Krcel, Director of Public Works and Environmental Services.

Final operating conditions will depend on MECP approval. If approved, the Environmental Services Department would prepare a communication and implementation plan for the curbside rollout and the transition of the rural landfill sites to transfer sites.