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  • Making the most of our water: Guelph’s Outside Water Use program

    It’s Outside Water Use Program season, with some possible changes to the program coming later this year Guelph, Ont., May 6, 2026 – Guelph’s Outside Water Use Program is a seasonal initiative that helps our community make the most of our water between the months of April and October. In the warmer months of the…

  • City of Guelph receives Partner of the Year award for collaboration on local sustainability efforts 

    Guelph, Ont., May 4, 2026 – The City of Guelph has received Sustainable Waterloo Region’s (SWR) 2025 Partner of the Year for collaboration on climate and sustainability work that is driving change in Guelph.  SWR announced the award on April 29 at its 2026 Evening of Recognition event, held at the Ken Seiling Waterloo Region…

  • Vegetation control along Guelph Junction Railway tracks, May 22-23

    Guelph, Ont., May 1, 2026 – PNR RailWorks Inc. will perform vegetation and weed control work along Guelph Junction Railway tracks between Woodlawn Road and Victoria Road, excluding a section of tracks from Norwich Street East to just past Macdonell Street. Vegetation control work will take place overnight on May 22–23, weather permitting, starting at…

  • Construction notice: City Hall cooling tower

    Date: May 1, 2026  What’s happening:  The cooling tower at City Hall will be removed and replaced. The current tower has reached the end of its lifespan and will be upgraded with a new, more efficient system.  Why:  City Hall needs a reliable cooling system to support daily operations and to safely serve as a designated cooling centre during extreme…

  • City of Guelph recognized as one of Canada’s Greenest Employers 

    Guelph, Ont., ​April 21, 2026​ – The City of Guelph has been named one of Canada’s Greenest Employers for 2026, reflecting the municipality’s leadership in climate action and sustainability.  “Creating a sustainable city is at the heart of what we do in Guelph, and being named to the Canada’s Greenest Employer list highlights this commitment,” said Tara Baker, Chief Administrative Officer. “Receiving this recognition for the first time, and as our first‑ever national…

  • Dispose of your batteries safely—drop them off in battery recycling bins!

    Many City facilities feature convenient Call2Recyle battery recycling bins Guelph, Ont., April 21, 2026 – Batteries are super useful but need to be disposed of properly. Improper disposal, like throwing them in your grey or blue bin can cause toxic materials to end up in the landfill and can even lead to dangerous fires. As…

  • Guelph residents’ water bills will come from the City of Guelph in June 2026

    Guelph, Ont., April 20, 2026 – Beginning in June 2026, the City of Guelph will be responsible for the administration and billing of water charges in the city. The transition follows Alectra Utilities’ decision to discontinue billing municipal water utilities. In June, customers can expect to receive one bill from Alectra for electricity and one…

  • Expression of Interest – Climate Action Community Benefit Agreement 

    The City of Guelph is inviting eligible not‑for‑profit organizations to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to partner with the City through a Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) in support of the Community Call to Climate Action.  The selected partner will convene, facilitate, and support a series of climate‑focused working groups. These groups will bring together community members, organizations, businesses, and…

  • Celebrate Earth Day this year by planting trees 

    Our community tree planting event is back!  Guelph, Ont., April 14, 2026 – The City of Guelph is cohosting its fourth annual Earth Day tree planting event in partnership with the Rotary Club of Guelph and Trees for Guelph.  Event details  Date: Saturday, April 25, rain or shine  Location: Hanlon Creek Forest, 335 Laird Road. Parking (including for bikes) and site access will be at…

  • Annual invasive species removal work resumes this spring

    Guelph, Ont., April 10, 2026 – Each year, we work to improve the environmental health of our parks and natural areas by removing invasive plant species. Invasive species, like buckthorn, Japanese knotweed, dog strangling vine and phragmites australis crowd out native species, threatening balanced ecosystems and reducing habitat for wildlife. Removing invasive species before they…

  • Guelph’s Community Tree Giveaway is back; claim a free tree for your yard starting April 22

    Guelph residents can claim free trees for their yard to help enhance the city’s tree canopy Guelph, Ont., April 8, 2026 – Our Community Tree Giveaway is back! If you’re a Guelph resident, you can claim up to two free trees for your yard, starting April 22 at 10 a.m. This year, we have 2,000…

  • City wide leak detection work beginning April 2026 

    April 7, 2026  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 April to September 2026. Hetek will listen for leaks throughout all of Guelph at all City-owned fire hydrants and water main valves.  Work begins April 13  Leak detection acoustics will take place overnight from April to September, to minimize background noise. There…

  • Guelph Finalizes Situational Analysis of The Blueprint: Guelph’s One Water Plan

    Guelph, Ont., April 1, 2026 – As we work on developing The Blueprint: Guelph’s One Water Plan, we’ve published the project’s first technical memo. The Blueprint is the City’s first integrated water management strategy and this initial technical memo, Situational Analysis, analyzes and reviews Guelph’s progress and performance in water conservation and efficiency over the…

  • Earth Month 2026 in Guelph

    You’ve felt it — summers that linger a little longer, energy bills that creep up, wildfire smoke that has you stuck inside on an otherwise beautiful day. These aren’t abstract concerns. They’re becoming part of our lives, and they’re also why Guelph is already doing something about it. Earth Month is our chance to come…

  • Join Guelph’s second annual Ecochallenge this April 

    Guelph, Ont., March 24, 2026 – The City of Guelph is hosting its second annual Ecochallenge from April 1-30. As part of our commitment to reducing waste, supporting a circular economy and reducing climate change impacts, we are inviting everyone in Guelph to join our team. It’s all about making small changes together that add up to make a big impact.  What’s the Ecochallenge?  The Ecochallenge is a month-long, online challenge where people choose small, simple actions…

  • Let’s think about saving water—and money—during Fix a Leak Week and World Water Day!

    Fix a Leak Week flows from March 16 until World Water Day on March 22. Guelph, Ont., March 18, 2026 – It’s never a bad time to think carefully about our water use but Fix a Leak Week is an annual initiative held during the third week of March that helps remind us just how…

  • Water operations work taking place overnight on March 16 

    Notice date: March 12, 2026  What’s happening:   ​​City crews are performing routine water system valve operations and maintenance in the downtown area.  Why:   ​​This work will ensure valves are in working condition for upcoming watermain work for the Wyndham Street Reconstruction Project.  When:   ​​Work will be completed overnight on Monday, March 16 (weather permitting).​ We will provide updates if the date changes.  Changes during construction:    Traffic lanes: Brief…

  • Construction notice: 100 Steps Watermain Rehabilitation  

    Notice Date: March 11, 2026 What’s happening: The City of Guelph is renewing the 100 Steps watermain, originally built in 1902. The contractor, Fer-Pal Construction Ltd (Core Aqua) will be using a trenchless lining method called cured-in-place pipe (CIPP). The 100 Steps Watermain is located between Huron St./Elizabeth St. intersection and Grove St./Metcalfe St. intersection.…

  • Embrace the joy of spring with Guelph’s Healthy Landscapes speaker series!

    Free educational sessions offer lots of learning and fun Guelph, Ont., March 10, 2026 – Our Healthy Landscapes speaker series is back! We’re hosting a range of fascinating educational sessions through March, April and May, with topics ranging from healthy soil to invasive plants to bird-friendly gardens and more. Snag your free tickets from the…

  • Help us finalize Guelph’s updated Outside Water Use Bylaw

    Have Your Say by March 22 We’re asking for community feedback on the proposed changes to our Outside Water Use Bylaw. You can share your thoughts by submitting a comment through Have Your Say by March 22! In 2025, we kicked off a review of the bylaw, which was initially adopted in 2003 to meet…

  • Construction notice: fire hydrant replacement at 46 Quebec Street starting March 8, 2026 

    Notice date: ​Friday, February 27, 2026​ What’s happening:  ​​We’re replacing a fire hydrant at 46 Quebec Street​. Our crews will need to excavate the area around the hydrant and replace it with a new hydrant. This will require digging in the roadway/boulevard, which may temporarily impact access and water service for nearby properties.  Why:  The fire hydrant has been damaged beyond repair…

  • Notice of public open house #2: Gordon Street and Clair/Laird Road environmental assessment

    The study The City of Guelph has initiated a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA) Study for improvements to Gordon Street, from Clair Road to Maltby Road, and Clair/Laird Road, from Victoria Road to Southgate Drive (Highway 6 on/off ramps). The study will build on recommendations identified in the previously completed Clair-Maltby Master Environmental Servicing Plan…

  • City of Guelph sets roadmap to major emissions reductions and long-term sustainability

    Guelph, Ont., January 28, 2026 – The City of Guelph has released a new Corporate Climate Action Plan that charts how the municipality can cut more than 10,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions from City operations by 2035. Focused on the buildings, vehicles, systems and policies the City directly manages, the action plan outlines how…

  • Arkell Spring Grounds Wellfield red pine thinning

    Protecting our water and enhancing local biodiversity through responsible forest management Guelph, Ont., January 26, 2026 – Starting in late January, red pine plantations in the northeast section of the Arkell Spring Grounds Wellfield will be thinned. This work continues ongoing efforts to protect and enhance a key water source for the City of Guelph.…

  • City of Guelph and GRCA partnering on future of 126.16 acres along Niska Road

    Planned land transfer helps provide parkland for the growing Guelph community Guelph, Ont., January 23, 2026 – The City of Guelph and the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) are working on an agreement for the transfer of 126.16 acres of land along Niska Road. Today, the GRCA board gave direction to proceed with working towards…

  • Notice of study commencement: Victoria Road and Stone Road environmental assessment

    The study Guelph is one of the fastest growing communities in Canada. Based on recommendations in the 2022 Transportation Master Plan and the Guelph Innovation District Secondary Plan, several key roads in Guelph need upgrades to support new neighbourhoods planned in the Guelph Innovation District. The City is initiating a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA)…

  • Some City rates and fees changing January 1 

    Guelph, Ont., December 22, 2025 – On January 1, 2026, rates and fees for some City services and programs will increase. For 2026, user fees will increase by an average of 2.25% compared to 2025 rates. The changes reflect the City’s Council-adopted 2026 budget.   Check the 2026 rates, fees and charges guide for a full list of the rates and the changes with the effective…

  • Guelph residents can recycle all packaging starting January 1, 2026 

    Guelph, Ont., December 18, 2025 – Starting January 1, 2026, all households in Ontario will follow the same recycling rules. Even more items can now go into your blue box instead of the grey cart.   What’s new, starting January 1   You can recycle:   Still accepted in your Blue Box  These items remain recyclable:   Why are these changes happening?   The Ontario…

  • Protect your water pipes from freezing 

    Guelph, Ont., December 15, 2025 – Frigid winter conditions mean you should protect your water pipes from freezing.  Key facts   Tips for protecting frozen pipes  Resources   Be prepared for emergencies  Tips and information about frozen pipes  For more information  Guelph Water Services City of Guelph 519-837-5627 [email protected] 

  • Gay Lea Foods saving 21,960 cubic metres of water per year thanks to Water Smart Business upgrades

    Water savings equivalent to the average water use of 122 single-family homes Guelph, Ont., December 9, 2025 – Gay Lea Foods Co-operative Limited (“Gay Lea Foods”) is now saving more than 60,000 litres of water per day thanks to water saving projects supported by the City’s Water Smart Business program. These water savings, equivalent to…

  • Notice of study commencement: McQuillan’s Bridge (Structure 116) environmental assessment

    The study McQuillan’s Bridge (Structure 116) – also known as the Stone Road East Bow Truss Bridge – is a former vehicle bridge that was repurposed as a pedestrian bridge in 2005 when Stone Road East was realigned. McQuillan’s Bridge was originally constructed in 1916 and was designated as a heritage property in Bylaw (2004)-17357A.…

  • Help us create a more sustainable future Guelph during Circular Economy Month

    Guelph, Ont., September 29, 2025 – The City of Guelph is proud to participate in Circular Economy Month, a nationwide initiative dedicated to educating and inspiring action toward reducing waste, conserving resources, and building a more sustainable future. Throughout October, we invite residents, businesses, and local organizations to learn about the circular economy and embrace…

  • Have your say on Guelph’s water and wastewater servicing allocation policy

    Guelph, Ont., September 22, 2025 – The City of Guelph is starting Phase 2 of public engagement to help develop a new water and wastewater servicing allocation policy. This policy will help define the process for how and when water and wastewater services are allocated to new housing and other builds. A draft version of…

  • 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:…

  • 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…

  • 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:…

  • 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.

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • 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.

  • Annual CCTV inspection and flushing program

    We 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…

  • 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…

  • 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.

  • 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…

  • 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)…

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • City of Guelph North East Water Supply (NEWS) Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study

    Notice 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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