The City of Hamilton reminds the public once again that the dumping of household trash which does not originate from within the City is illegal and violates the Waste Litter Control Act.
The City also wishes to remind the public that, according to the Act, household trash does NOT include “furniture or any household appliance; or the product of gardening or horticulture.” These items must be disposed of accordingly. Bulky refuse collection within Hamilton (e.g. appliances, computers, furniture) is done by appointment only with the City’s Assistant Sanitation Supervisor who can be contacted at 504-8261.
The City will only collect small loads at the discretion of the Sanitation Supervisor. Customers must make their own arrangements for larger loads. No hazardous materials, garden foliage or construction materials will be collected under any circumstances. For more information, please see the embedded collection schedule and terms of service. Those who dump these items on City streets outside of these stipulations are committing an offence and liable to a fine.
This reminder follows a series of illegal dumping incidents which have occurred in the last few days in the areas of Till’s Hill, Union Street, Court Street and Elliot Street (images embedded below). Not only are City sanitation workers discovering bags of dumped household waste, but there is also a worrying increase in dumped medical waste, industrial waste and old appliances and furnishings.
The City will look to review CCTV footage and anyone found to be bringing trash from outside parishes and dumping it in the City or dumping items other than household waste will be prosecuted.
City CEO Dwayne Caines, said of the illegal dumping, “This is a perennial issue which we have been noticing more and more. It has become evident that household trash from outside the City limits is being brought into the City and dumped on City sidewalks and other areas for collection by City sanitation crews. This dumping is not only illegal but irresponsible. City businesses and residents that pay City taxes abide by a collection schedule, imperative to the cleanliness of the City. They use City-issued wheelie bins so that their refuse is secured and the safety and health of the collection crews is not compromised. They also help to reduce rodents in the City whereas dumped plastic bags with household refuse can serve to attract them.
“We do have CCTV cameras around the City and will prosecute those offenders we find committing any violations. It is imperative that we all do our part to keep the City clean and safe for the wellbeing of all. If you can dump it in the City, you can dump it at Tynes Bay.”
The wheelie bin initiative has greatly improved the effectiveness of refuse collection throughout the City and users are reminded to use and store them properly in accordance with the terms and conditions.
The City implores the public to make smart decisions, to act responsibly, and to do their part to engage in best practices as directed by the Government. Household trash that has not been picked up should be taken directly to Tynes Bay.
Household waste items include paper, cardboard, plastics and food waste.
The Ministry of Public Works has created a helpful ‘What Goes Where’ chart which can be viewed here.
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