The City of Kingston is explaining garbage costs

Notice comes after price for garbage tags goes up

The City of Kingston is shedding light on rising garbage costs after raising the price of garbage bag tags from $2 to $4, the first increase in over 20 years.

The city says the price hike reflects higher expenses in its Solid Waste division. Garbage collection costs jumped from $4.8 million in 2021 to $5.5 million in 2025, driven by rising landfill fees and fuel surcharges. Despite the new fee, taxpayers still subsidize $4.4 million annually for one free garbage bag per household each week.

Officials apologize for not announcing the increase sooner. Residents can continue using old tags and are encouraged to reduce waste by composting and recycling.

For tips on reducing waste and helping the environment, visit CityofKingston.ca/Waste.

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