City of Rossland Updates Spring Clean-Up Program for 2026
By City of Rossland
The City of Rossland is making changes to its Spring Clean-Up program beginning in 2026, in response to rising costs, increased volumes of materials and resource limitations.
As part of the City’s 2026–2030 Draft Five-year Financial Plan, staff identified that Spring Clean- Up has expanded well beyond its original scope. What began decades ago as a roadside sand and gravel pickup has gradually evolved into a broader cleanup service, with growing expectations around curbside collection of yard waste and FireSmart debris.
“The scale of the program has increased every year,” said Scott Lamont, Manager of Operations. “What once took a few weeks now takes up to two months of our limited construction season, which delays other essential services across the community.”
Higher disposal fees, hauling costs, and labour needs mean the current program is no longer affordable. To keep the program within budget and manageable for staff, Spring Clean-Up will be refocused to its original core purpose.
What’s changing in 2026
• Public Works will collect roadside sand and gravel only during Spring Clean Up.
• Curbside pickup of branches, piles of leaves, yard waste, and FireSmart debris will no longer occur.
• Residents can dispose of materials using: Designated debris bins at the arena parking lot (available on a rotational, budget limited basis), The RDKB Green Bin Program (specific garden waste only), Direct hauling to the McKelvey Creek Landfill in Trail (at resident expense).
• Spring Clean-Up is scheduled to begin on April 7, 2026 (With bins available at the Arena).
The bins will remain available on a rotational basis for as long as funding allows. Once the allocated budget reaches its limit, the bins will be removed.
City staff say the changes will also help clarify the distinction between Spring Clean-Up and FireSmart initiatives. programs are targeted, grant funded efforts and are not
FireSmart intended to function as general cleanup services, while Spring Clean-Up is a municipally funded program paid for by local taxpayers.
“These changes aren’t about eliminating service,” Lamont said. “They’re about keeping Spring Clean-Up equitable, affordable, and sustainable over the long term.”
Residents with questions about the program are encouraged to contact Operations and Public Works directly at (250) 362-2328 or via email at pwclerk@rossland.ca.
For the full story click on this link: https://rossland.civicweb.net/document/54407
