The Green Bin program encourages Markham residents to put organics (fruit & vegetable scraps, diapers, paper towels, coffee grinds etc.) in a Green Bin for weekly collection. We can divert over 35% of our waste from landfill by using our Green Bins every week.

What Goes in the Green Bin?

Check out this list of what goes in the Green Bin.

Not sure if an item is recyclable? Look it up using the What Goes Where tool.

How to get a Green Bin

Purchase green bins and kitchen containers at:

• Markham's Recycling Depots
• Markham Civic Centre
• Community Centres:
• Angus Glen
• Thornhill
• Centennial
• Milliken Mills

Broken or damaged Green Bins can be exchanged at Markham's Recycling Depots only.

              Green Bin $20                                        Kitchen Container $7

Payment
Recycling Depots and Community Centres accept cheques and Interac only (no cash). The Civic Centre accept cheques, Interac, Visa, MasterCard and cash.

Green Bin Rules

• Make sure that your Green Bin is at your curb by 7:00 a.m. on your regular collection day, but no earlier than 7:00 p.m. the day before collection.
• Organics cannot be loose in your Green Bin. All Green Bin material must be placed out for collection in bags that are securely closed or tied. You do not have to purchase special bags to dispose of your organic material. 
• Any type of bag is acceptable in the Green Bin. Find out more about your Green Bin Set-Out Options.
• If you have too much organics for your Green Bin, you can put overflow organics at the curb in a clear plastic bag. You can also buy another Green Bin if you need to.
• Green Bins cannot weigh more than 40 pounds.
• Grass clippings cannot go in your Green Bin. Place grass clippings in your backyard composter or leave them on your lawn.
• Don't place yard waste in your Green Bin. Yard waste and Green Bins are collected separately because different technology is used to compost these materials.

Helpful Tips

• Label your Green Bin with your address so it doesn't go missing.
• Plastic grocery bags can be used to line your small kitchen container. Simply tie the bag when full and place it into the Green Bin.
• Please do not set your small kitchen container at the curb for collection. The smaller containers are perfect for collecting organic waste inside your home. The larger Green Bin is ideal for curbside collection.
• If raccoons are getting into your Green Bin, use a 12 inch bungy cord to keep your Green Bin closed. Remember to remove the bungy cord before placing your Green Bin out for collection.

What Happens to my Green Bin Material

The Region of York processes Markham's Green Bin organics. Find out what happens to your Green Bin material once it leaves your curb. 

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