Environment
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Celebrating all things forests and trees during National Forest Week, September 21 to 27
Events, information and plenty of tree-flavoured fun Guelph, Ont., September 16, 2025 – Each September, National Forest Week is celebrated across Canada. Forests, along with the trees and other plants that form them, bring all kinds of benefits to our communities. They can mitigate climate change, store carbon, improve air quality, enhance public health and mental…
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City’s Outside Water Use Program moves back to Level 1 Yellow
Lawn watering allowed during mornings and evenings on alternating days Guelph, Ont., September 12, 2025 – In response to recent weather conditions and water level monitoring reports, the City’s Outside Water Use Program is moving back to level 1 yellow (from level 2 red) effective today. At level 1 yellow, lawn watering is permitted between…
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Downey Road Well and Clythe Water Treatment Plant ecological restoration projects
Guelph, Ont., September 11, 2025 What’s happening The City of Guelph is starting two projects to restore natural areas at the Downey Road Well and the new Clythe Water Treatment Plant. These projects will help improve the health of local ecosystems, protect water resources and support wildlife. Project locations What’s being done Removing invasive species:…
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Reusable containers accepted by food service businesses starting September 1, 2025
Guelph, Ont., August 28, 2025 – As part of the City of Guelph’s commitment to reducing waste and supporting a circular economy, effective September 1, 2025, food service businesses must accept a customer’s clean reusable food container for in-store food orders. This requirement is part of the City’s Single-use items reduction strategy and ban, which…
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City to pilot shared waste containers in Downtown Guelph
Guelph, Ont., August 21, 2025 – As part of ongoing revitalization efforts, the City has launched a pilot program to trial the use of shared waste containers in Downtown Guelph. Beginning on August 25, eligible Downtown businesses and residents can register for secure access to shared organics, recycling and garbage containers in three key locations:…
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City’s Outside Water Use Program moves to Level 2 Red
No lawn watering and at-home car washing allowed Guelph, Ont., August 13 2025 – In response to recent dry weather and insufficient amounts of rainfall, the City is changing watering restrictions from level 1 yellow to level 2 red of the Outside Water Use Program. At level 2 red, lawn watering and car washing are…
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City’s Outside Water Use Program moves to Level 1 Yellow
Increased enforcement for excessive outside water use Guelph, Ont., July 3, 2025 – In response to recent dry weather, the City is changing watering restrictions from level 0 blue to level 1 yellow of the Outside Water Use Program. In level 1 yellow, the Outside Water Use Program is actively enforced by the City’s bylaw…
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Some of Guelph’s fire hydrants are getting a new coat of paint this summer
in WaterThe work is expected to begin this week and take approximately two months to complete.
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Young climate leaders in Guelph get over $61,000 to take action
Guelph youth are leading the way with smart ideas to fight climate change and build a better future. Guelph, Ont., June 25, 2025 – The City is continuing its commitment to being a leader in environmental sustainability by helping young people take action on climate change. Through phase 2 of the Youth Climate Action Fund…
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Well testing to begin June 23 between Laird Road West and Forestell Road
As part of the Southwest Guelph Water Supply Class Environmental Assessment, the City of Guelph will begin testing at a City owned Guelph South (GSTW1-20) Test Well which is located between Laird Road West and Forestell Road. What you need to know Why is the well being tested The City of Guelph is pursuing a…
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City marking ash and hazard trees for removal starting fall 2025
The City of Guelph is currently marking public trees for removal later this year. Trees in parks and natural areas that are hazardous, and ash trees infested and killed by the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) are being marked with an orange “X” to designate them for removal.
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Notice of Study Commencement: Street A Collector Road (Poppy Drive to Maltby Road)
The study Guelph is growing and is expected to reach a population of 203,000 by 2051. To support this growth, Guelph needs more homes and more essential infrastructure. The owners of 132 Clair Road, 2021, 2093, 2143 and 2187 Gordon Street, and 99 Maltby Road, together with the City of Guelph, are undertaking a Schedule…
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Addressing climate change in Guelph requires united community effort, says City of Guelph report
Timely collective action needed to keep the city safe, livable and resilient Guelph, Ont., May 28, 2025 – A new City report is calling on the Guelph community to take climate action to reach net zero carbon by 2050. The Community Call to Climate Action report and backgrounder share our current progress, future goals, and…
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Help Shape Guelph’s Water and Wastewater Servicing Allocation Policy
The City of Guelph is developing a new Water and Wastewater Servicing Allocation Policy and Bylaw that will guide how water supply and wastewater treatment capacity is allocated to new housing and business as well as introduce timelines for when unused allocations may be revoked, ensuring that our resources are used efficiently and fairly. By providing…
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City wide leak detection work beginning May 2025
May to October 2025 About the project The City has hired Hetek Solutions (Hetek) to detect leaks in Guelph’s water mains using acoustics (listening equipment) that will take place from May to October 2025. Hetek will listen for leaks throughout all of Guelph at all City-owned fire hydrants and water main valves. Work begins in…
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Correction: One Water Journey: Indigenous Perspectives with Gimaa (Chief) Stacey Laforme
Correction (May 9, 2025): The public notice is being updated to correct information in the original version, which stated: “The One Water Journey encourages us to think about our connections with water, land, and each other. Guelph is located on the traditional lands of the Attiwonderonk (Neutral), and the Treaty Lands of the Mississaugas of…
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Sanitary sewer repair starting April 29, 2025
Speedvale Avenue East Notice Date: April 28, 2025 About this project Speedvale Avenue East sanitary sewer repair work begins on April 29, 2025. Location 55-75 Speedvale Ave E, beside Magic 106.1 radio station (along the bridge). Through the City of Guelph’s preventative maintenance program an important sanitary sewer repair on Speedvale Ave East has been…
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Notice of Public Information Centre
in WaterEvent: North East Water Supply Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study Purpose: The City of Guelph is conducting a study to find a new water supply in the Northeast area. Event Details: Date: Monday, May 12, 2025 Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (drop-in format) Location: Rockmosa Older Adults Centre, 121 Rockmosa Dr, Rockwood Why Attend: Your feedback is important for our…
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Notice of Study Commencement: Gordon Street, Clair Road and Laird Road Municipal Class Environmental Assessment and Infrastructure Preliminary Design Study
The study Guelph is growing and is expected to reach a population of 203,000 by 2051. To support this growth, Guelph needs more homes and more essential infrastructure. To identify requirements for growth and development in the Clair-Maltby area in Guelph’s south end, the City of Guelph completed the Clair-Maltby Secondary Plan (OPA 79) in…
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City updates Private Tree Protection Bylaw
The City of Guelph Council has adopted an updated Private Tree Protection Bylaw, modernizing how the removal and injury of trees on private property is handled.
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Annual CCTV inspection and flushing program
in WaterWe are conducting annual sanitary sewer mainlines CCTV inspection and flushing on April 25, 2025, starting at 2:30am in various locations around the City. This process involves using high-pressure water to clean the pipes and CCTV cameras to inspect them for any issues. Key Information All roads will remain open. The work will take approximately one…
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City awards $45,000 to youth-led climate action projects
Opens phase 2 applications for Youth Climate Action Fund Guelph, Ont., April 22, 2025 – In celebration of Earth Day, the City is proud to announce the awarding of about $45,000 to nine innovative projects through the Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF). Guelph is one of Six Canadian cities and one of 100 international cities…
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Guelph grows together! Register for our Community Tree Giveaway
Starting April 22 at 10 a.m., Guelph residents can register for up to two free, native trees for their yard though our Community Tree Giveaway. Registration closes at 11:59 p.m. on May 6 or when stock runs out.
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Celebrate Earth Month with the City of Guelph!
in EnvironmentApril 1 – 30 is Earth Month, and the City of Guelph invites you to take part in activities and events to help protect the environment and reduce our carbon footprint. Upcoming Earth Month events Guelph EcoChallenge (April 1 – 30) Looking to reduce your carbon footprint? Join the Guelph EcoChallenge and commit to new…
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Reusable container amendment to Single-Use Items Bylaw
On March 25, 2025, Council approved changes to the Single Use Items Bylaw. Starting September 1, 2025, businesses in Guelph must accept customers’ reusable containers for food orders, whether the food is eaten on-site or taken away. Alternatively, businesses can provide their own reusable containers instead. Key Points: This rule does not apply to food…
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Public waste drop-off
in EnvironmentChange to hours of operation Effective April 28, 2025, the public waste drop-off site will no longer be open on Mondays. Hours of operation remain the same Tuesday – Saturday. The public waste drop-off is open to Guelph residents for garbage, household hazardous waste, yard waste and recyclables. For more information visit Waste Resource Innovation…
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Keep Mattresses out of The Landfill
Recycling Mattresses Services at Waste Resource Innovation Centre Starting Wednesday, April 2, 2025, the City of Guelph is launching a Mattress Recycling Program. This initiative aims to reduce landfill waste by recycling as much material as possible from discarded mattresses. Key Highlights: Launch date: April 2, 2025 Annual Impact: Diverting approximately 3,000 mattresses (65,000 kg)…
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It’s Fix A Leak Week!
Book a free in-home water audit with a click of a button! This year, Fix A Leak Week kicks off on Monday, March 17, 2025, followed by World Water Day on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Our goal is to promote water conservation and help you save on water bills. As a community that relies on…
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City of Guelph receives $500,000 from Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) to support circular food economy
FCM Green Municipal Fund (GMF) grant will help reduce food waste in Guelph Guelph, Ont., March 10, 2025 – Guelph has received a $500,000 grant from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ (FCM) Green Municipal Fund (GMF) to reduce food waste. The funding will support three pilot programs: Food Redistribution: Starting this month, this project will…
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Single-use items reduction strategy: phase two now in effect
Shopping sustainably in Guelph just got easier! On March 1, 2025, changes to Guelph’s Single-Use Items By-law (2024) – 20938 came into effect. When visiting applicable businesses and retailers in Guelph, you should be aware of the following: You can bring a clean reusable drink cup for in-store beverage orders. Single-use accessory food ware items…
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Guelph opens applications for youth-led climate action fund
Guelph, Ont., March 3, 2025 – The City of Guelph is excited to announce the opening of applications for the Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF) micro-grant program. This initiative seeks to empower youth by equipping them with the necessary resources and support to achieve our collective environmental stewardship goals. Here are the highlights for this year’s…
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City of Guelph North East Water Supply (NEWS) Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study
in WaterNotice of Study Commencement Issue Date: February 25, 2025 Overview The City of Guelph (the City) is growing and is expected to reach a population of 203,000 by 2051. The City is committed to managing population growth as it continues to develop strategies for ensuring adequate water supply. The 2022 Water Supply Master Plan (WSMP)…
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How do you use water in your home?
The City of Guelph is participating in the 3rd Residential End Uses of Water Study, and we would like your input. The Residential End Uses of Water Study, Version 3 (REUWS 3) survey is being conducted by Flume Inc on behalf of the Water Research Foundation. As part of this project, the City of Guelph…
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The City of Guelph is recruiting for the Downtown Solid Waste User Fee Working Group
The City of Guelph is recruiting Downtown property owners and managers, businesses and institutions, and organizations with potential interest in coordinating waste management to join the Downtown Solid Waste User Fee Working Group. The group will collaborate with City staff throughout 2025 to: Help plan a new downtown solid waste user fee program in 2026…
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Calling all gardeners: A new community garden and pollinator habitat is coming your way!
Have your say by February 28, 2025 February 10, 2025 – Got a green thumb? We want to hear your feedback on the layout and locations for a new community garden proposed for Golfview Park and a pollinator habitat proposed for a site near Preservation Park off Southcreek Trail. Have your say on the proposed…
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Open house for The Blueprint: Guelph’s One Water Plan
Help shape the One Water Plan You’re invited to an open house for the development of the City’s integrated water management strategy, called The Blueprint: Guelph’s One Water Plan. Please join us on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, anytime between 4:30 pm and 6:30 pm in the Marg Mackinnon Room at City Hall. Come learn about…
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Frigid winter temperatures mean you should protect your pipes from freezing
Notice date: January 20, 2025 Key facts Cold temperatures forecasted for the months of January and February can cause substantial frost build up below ground. With upcoming forecasts predicting low temperatures, you can prevent frozen pipes by taking preventative action. Tips for preventing frozen pipes You can prevent frozen pipes in your home or business…
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Updated: City working to resolve water main break, Downtown Guelph
Guelph, Ont., January 15, 2025 The City is aware of a water main break on Macdonnell at Wyndham Street North in Downtown Guelph. Our staff are working diligently to complete the repairs as soon as possible. While the situation is being handled, we encourage everyone to avoid the area until repairs are complete. There are…
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Help shape Guelph’s water conservation strategy
Guelph, Ont., December 19, 2024 – The City of Guelph is developing its first integrated water management strategy, called The Blueprint: Guelph’s One Water Plan. The City of Guelph is known for its commitment to sustainable water management through the operation of three municipal services: water, wastewater, and stormwater. These municipal services are important for…
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Paper shredder will no longer be available at the Waste Resource Innovation Centre
Commencing January 1, 2025 Guelph, Ont., December 19, 2024 – Beginning January 1, 2025, the self-service paper shredder at the Waste Resource Innovation Centre (WRIC) will no longer operate due to changes from the provincial Blue Box Regulation. Shredded and un-shredded paper is still being collected using the following options: Drop off shredded paper in…
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City begins annual hazard tree removal
The next step in the City’s annual tree removal program is set to begin. Trees in parks and natural areas that are hazardous, including ash trees infested and killed by the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), were identified and marked for removal earlier this year. Removals will begin on or around November 25.
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Polymer Distribution Inc. is seeing results
By optimizing their boilers, PDI saves over $15,000 annually! Polymer Distribution Inc. is a fully integrated transloading and transportation facility located in Guelph that helps food, polymer, and chemical companies service their customers efficiently and sustainably. They are proactively looking for new and innovative ways to reduce their impact on natural resources, like water. After…
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Downey Well and Pumphouse Access Laneway
The City of Guelph is constructing a new laneway to access Downey Well and Pumphouse for operation and maintenance.
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Tips for managing fall yard waste in Guelph
This fall, Guelph residents have four ways to get rid of their leaves and yard waste: Mulch leaves and leave them on your lawn for healthy grass next spring or use leaves – whole or mulched – to insulate and protect your garden beds over winter. From now until December 1, bag leaves or put them in…
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Blue box recycling collection in Guelph to transition to Waste Management Corporation of Canada in January 2025
Curbside collection will be maintained Guelph, Ont., October 21, 2024 – Starting January 1, 2025, Waste Management Corporation of Canada (WM) will be responsible for collecting blue box recycling including blue carts in Guelph. The City of Guelph will still collect garbage, organics, and yard waste as usual. WM has confirmed to the City that…
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Arkell Spring Grounds and Carter Wellfield Projects
These properties are significant water supply assets owned by the City and located in the Township of Puslinch.
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City set to receive $2.1 million in provincial funding for water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades in Guelph
Funds to support water and wastewater capacity improvements Guelph, Ont., October 2, 2024 – The City of Guelph is pleased to announce that it has been awarded $2.1 million by the province through the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund (HEWS Fund) for the Wyndham-Wellington Water and Wastewater Capacity Improvements project. This funding, which was awarded through…
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City of Guelph awards $53,000 to 14 projects through the Youth Climate Action Fund micro-grant program
Guelph, Ont., September 12, 2024 – The City of Guelph is pleased to announce that fourteen projects have been awarded $53,000 through the Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF) micro-grant program. Guelph is one of six Canadian cities and one of one hundred international cities chosen to receive a micro-grant through the Youth Climate Action Fund…
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Testing at the Logan Well will begin August 29
About the project The City is working with Stantec, an environmental consultant, to complete testing City owned Logan Test Well. The test will pump potable drinking water to the stormwater management system at a catch basin on Eastview Road and Norton Drive, and discharge to a storm pond at the north east corner of Watson…
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Meadow maintenance underway in Guelph parks and natural areas in August
We’re preparing for yearly meadow mowing, which takes place between mid-August and the end of October, depending on the site and weather conditions.