The first Household Hazardous Waste Day of 2020 will be held at the Public Works Facility at 1900 20th Street East from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. on Saturday, July 25.

This popular program is open to residents from the following municipalities in 2020:
· City of Owen Sound;
· Township of Chatsworth;
· Township of Georgian Bluffs;
· Municipality of Grey Highlands;
· Municipality of Meaford; and
· Municipality of West Grey.

Please note that we do not accept the following:

· Infectious wastes (such as syringes);
· Radioactive wastes;
· Explosives (ammunition, flares, gun powder);
· Unidentified waste (unlabeled items); and
· Improperly contained waste (compromised containers, missing lids, leaking materials).

We also cannot accept hazardous waste from commercial, industrial or farm operations.

For a full list of what is accepted, and to download a copy of the Hazardous Waste Report form (that can be completed before arrival), residents are asked to visit the City Website.

There will be four more Household Hazardous Waste Days in 2020 on August 8th, September 12th, October 3rd and October 24th

The City of Owen Sound’s Household Hazardous Waste Days are aimed at keeping hazardous waste out of Ontario’s landfills and waterways. The materials you drop off are recycled or otherwise disposed of in a safe and environmentally friendly matter. Working together will ensure our environment is protected for future generations.

Also happening Saturday is Goods Exchange Day.

We are asking that anyone participating in the Goods Exchange Day please follow the outlined guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19:

· Wipe any and all items with disinfectant before placing them at the side of the curb.
· Keep at least 2m (6ft) distance from others.
· Wash and disinfect any and all items before use if possible.
· Wash your hands when you return home from bargain hunting.

Popular Goods Exchange Day items include sporting goods, furniture, small appliances, books, art, tools, toys, doors, sinks, windows, etc. Anything that does not find a new home must be taken back inside by 6:00 PM the same day.

To ensure that items at the curb are intended as Goods Exchange Day items, we ask that residents tie a white plastic bag to one of the items at the curb or place a sign that says “FREE” on the items.

Participating in Goods Exchange Day diverts usable items and materials from landfill disposal. It is also a great way to offer your unwanted items to others without the hassle of hosting a garage sale.

As always, residents are reminded to please drive carefully, watch for pedestrians, and obey traffic laws in their search for curbside bargains.

source: media releases, City of Owen Sound