Litter ranges from candy wrappers and beverage containers to cigarette butts and unwanted appliances. It accumulates on our streets, in our parks, in our streams and ravines, and the countryside. Weather plays a big role – when it is windy, waste put out for collection can get blown all over the neighbourhood.

Community Clean-up Challenge

Every year, to celebrate Earth Day (April 22), the Mayor and Councillors organize a Community Clean-up where everyone can join in to help pick-up litter in their neighbourhoods and parks. And at noon, everyone gathers at Civic Square for a barbeque as a thank you to citizens for their efforts to help keep Burlington clean.

Litter By-law

By-law 54-2007 was approved by council in 2007, which established a $300 fine for litter offences in the city.

Dumping

Dumping usually involves a large amount of waste being dumped illegally in areas such as vacant properties, parks and along rural roads. Dumping is an offence under By-law 117-1976.

• If you witness someone dumping garbage on private property, you can contact the city’s Building Department – By-law Enforcement staff at 905-335-7731.
• If you witness someone dumping garbage on city property, contact the city’s Roads and Parks Maintenance Department at 905-333-6166.