Automated garbage collection officially begins in Portage la Prairie on August 1, 2025, with Zone 1A residents the first to start using the new system.
The shift to automation replaces manual collection with trucks that use mechanical arms to lift standardized carts; aiming to improve worker safety, reduce litter, and streamline operations.
Carts were delivered this week to homes across the city. Each household receives a black, 360-litre cart to be used for weekly garbage pickup.
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What’s changing
Starting on each zone’s first collection day after August 1, only waste placed in the new carts will be collected. The lid must be fully closed, and bags left outside the cart will not be picked up. Bag tags will no longer be accepted.
“No more manual pickup” means residents no longer have to drag heavy garbage bags to the curb. Instead, the carts can be wheeled out easily on collection day.
Printed instructions and a QR code are attached to each cart, directing residents to more information online. The City also recommends downloading the “MWM Environmental” app for collection reminders and service alerts.
What stays the same
Garbage will still be picked up weekly on the current schedule, and recycling remains on its current bi-weekly schedule. Yard and garden waste pickup will continue in spring and fall.
Utility fees on water bills remain unchanged. Residents in multi-family buildings with shared bins or carts will not see any changes to their current system.
Bulky item pickups now scheduled
A new bulky waste collection program is being introduced alongside the cart rollout. Residents will be allowed to place larger household items out at the curb during four designated weeks each year; in April, July, September, and December.
There’s no fee or tag required, but each item must weigh under 100 pounds. Heavier items must be taken to a private facility. Specific dates will be posted on the City’s website.
Cart ownership and replacement
Carts remain City property and must stay with the home, even if it’s sold. They’re expected to last at least 10 years and are covered by reserve funds; so no tax or utility increases are needed.
If a cart is damaged due to a manufacturer issue, MWM Environmental will replace it for free.
Damage from neglect or misuse may result in a replacement charge.
Placement matters
To ensure the trucks can access the carts, residents must place them correctly; at the curb, with wheels facing the house, and at least one metre of clearance around them. Don’t block carts with parked cars, poles, or other obstacles.
Homes without a curb or sidewalk should place carts at the end of the driveway. City staff will work with households that face space or access challenges.
Unused solid waste tags can be returned to City Hall or the Operations Department for a refund until September 30, 2025.
Assistance program available
If you’re unable to move your cart due to mobility or health concerns and have no one to help, the City offers a special assistance program.
Eligible residents can apply to have staff enter their property to move the cart to the curb for pickup and return it after. Applications are available online or in person at City Hall or the Operations Department.
For more details and answers to common questions, visit the Automated Waste Collection FAQ page on the City’s website.
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