WELLINGTON COUNTY– Beginning May 1, Wellington County takes a significant step forward in expanding its waste diversion efforts, with County Waste Facilities now equipped to divert drywall, and shingles to specialized recycling facilities, while mattress deconstruction and diversion techniques are being piloted. These materials were previously disposed of as general waste sent to the Riverstown landfill.
- Asphalt shingles are often repurposed into new paving materials.
- Drywall is processed for making agricultural soil amendment products or as raw input in new manufacturing streams.
- Mattresses are able to be broken down into recyclable components such as metal, wood, and foam.
“This is an important step toward creating a more sustainable and efficient waste system in Wellington County,” said Steve O’Neill, Chair of the Solid Waste Services Committee. “By diverting more materials away from landfill, we’re making better use of our facilities, extending the life of our landfill, preserving valuable space for items that truly have no other disposal option, and ultimately saving money.”
What residents need to know:
- Diverted Materials: Mattresses, drywall, and shingles
- Where: Wellington County Waste Facilities (excluding Rothsay, as it is not equipped with a weigh scale)
- When: Diversion of materials begins May 1
- Instructions: Residents are encouraged to separate materials when possible and to follow the directions of site staff to ensure proper drop-off
- Disposal Fees: Regular disposal fees apply
Operational changes, including the introduction of a $10 minimum waste fee, have made the addition of these materials to the County’s diversion programmes possible. Since its implementation in January 2025, the minimum fee has led to a noticeable drop in small-load traffic and overall tonnage at waste facilities, freeing up space and resources to manage new recyclable materials.
For information on accepted materials, fees, and waste facility locations, visit
www.wellington.ca/dropoff.
