Big garbage pickup is becoming an increasingly costly burden for municipalities. During spring and fall pickups, none of the materials are recycled: all items picked up are sent directly to the landfill. Additionally, it is becoming difficult to find companies that offer big garbage pickup services, which adds to logistical and financial challenges.
To improve the situation, a pilot project is being implemented for the upcoming pichkups. From September 2nd to 5th and November 18th to 21st, 2026, residents of the Township of Melbourne will be able to drop off their big garbage free of charge at the Ecocenter regional du Val-St-François located at 666, Keenan road in Melbourne. However, the regular pickup scheduled for October 2026 will take place.
The objectif of the pilot project is:
- To reduce the costs associated with collecting big garbage;
- To promote the reuse of items, whenever possible;
- To divert materials from landfills by giving them a second life or ensuring they are properly recycled.
During each collection period, residents may drop off:
- Up to 2 pieces of old upholstered furniture and/or mattresses (valued at $40)
- Up 2 m3 of non-recyclable materials, equivalent to 4 bins of 360L (valued at $100)
These quantities are allowed per residential address. Outside the pilot project, residents must pay the Ecocenter’s standard rates. During your visit, you must present proof of residence to take advantage of the pilot project’s benefits. The Ecocenter regional du Val-St-François now offers a trailer loan service to facilitate the transport of materials. Please contact the Ecocenter for more information on this service.
Ecocenter also serves as an AgriRÉCUP drop-pff point. This initiative enhances the Ecocenter’s services and aims to reduce waste by providing a free, local recycling solution for farmers in the region. This initiative supports the goal of the recycling targets set by Extended Producer Responsability Program for agricultural plastics. AgriRÉCUP bags are available free of charge from the Township of Melbourne.
Here is link to MRC du Val-St-François website for infrmation accepted and non-accepted items and rates.
Last modified: 11 August 2026
