Feb. 9, 2026 - For immediate release:
Airdrie, Alberta — The City of Airdrie will be rolling out new 120L black carts (the same capacity as the current garbage allowance) to homes across the community as part of the upcoming transition to automated garbage collection. Cart delivery begins in March and residents can start using their cart as soon as it arrives. Regular manual collection by GFL will continue until April 3.
City Council endorsed automated garbage collection in 2024 following extensive research, operational planning and a community-wide survey that helped shape how the program will roll out, including cart size, collection frequency and transition timing.
“This decision was grounded in strong community feedback,” said Mayor Heather Spearman. “Over 75 per cent of residents supported black carts to reduce wind-blown litter, improve neighbourhood cleanliness and support better waste diversion. While any change takes adjustment, this is about responding to what the community asked for and improving how our city looks and functions.”
Garbage will continue to be collected weekly, a preference shared by most survey participants.
“Automated service supports the City’s long-term diversion goals while keeping the program simple and cost-effective,” said Steven Rice, Team Leader, Waste and Recycling Services.
Manual garbage collection will continue during the transition period, allowing time for residents to become familiar with the carts before full automation begins on April 6. Some communities will have schedule changes starting April 6. For collection schedules, please see airdrie.ca/collectionschedule. Residents will be notified directly before any changes come into effect and can check updated schedules at airdrie.ca/blackcart.
Exemptions for diaper and medical waste will continue under the new program. Tags for occasional excess waste are still available for purchase at City Hall, Genesis Place and more. See a complete list of where you can purchase tags
For more information about the black cart rollout, visit airdrie.ca/blackcart
—30—
Media contact
City of Airdrie Communications
corporate.communication@airdrie.ca
403.948.8800