Saturdays during the Winter Season at Eco-Tech: What You Need to Know

Winter Saturdays

Winter in Waterloo Region can be unpredictable, and when the snow starts piling up, it affects more than just the roads. At Eco-Tech, Saturdays during the winter season operate a little differently — all to keep our customers safe and ensure our facility remains accessible.

If you plan to stop by on a Saturday between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know: winter fees, who they apply to, how to avoid them, and why Eco-Tech remains one of the most cost-effective recycling options in the area.

❄️ Why There’s a Winter Saturday Maintenance Fee

During heavy snow events (5 cm or more), Eco-Tech implements a $5 Winter Maintenance Fee per visiting customer.

This fee helps cover the cost of additional snow-clearing and ice-removal staff. Because property management does not handle snow and ice removal during Saturday hours, Eco-Tech brings in help to ensure:

• Walkways are cleared

• Steps and entrances are de-iced

• Floors inside remain safe and dry

• Customers can move heavy recycling safely into the building

  
  

Your safety — and the safety of our staff — comes first.

👥 Who Is Required to Pay the $5 Fee?

The winter fee applies only under specific conditions and for certain types of visits. You will be asked to pay the $5 fee if you:

• Are dropping off e-waste

• Are browsing refurbished computers or monitors without making a purchase

This helps offset the cost of maintaining a safe environment for high-traffic, high-handling services.

✔️ Who Is Exempt from the Fee?

You will not be charged the Winter Maintenance Fee if you are:

• Dropping off paper for shredding

• Purchasing any refurbished computers or monitors

• Using data-destruction services (e.g., hard drives, phones, memory devices)

• Bringing items for computer repair services

Eco-Tech’s goal isn’t to charge visitors unnecessarily — only to maintain a safe and operational space during snowy weekends.

🧾 Important Detail: It’s Per Customer, Not Per Item

The $5 fee is charged once per customer, per day, regardless of how many items you bring in. Whether you have one device or a car full of electronics, the fee remains the same.

💡 How to Avoid the Fee Entirely

If you'd prefer not to pay the winter charge, you have two easy options:

1. Visit Monday to Friday

Weekday visits (starting at 10:00 AM) never include the Winter Maintenance Fee, even during major snow events.

2. Check Snow Conditions Before Visiting

The fee is only applied when the area receives 5 cm or more of snowfall. If there hasn’t been significant snow, you will not be charged. A quick weather check can save you extra cost.

💸 Why Eco-Tech Is Still the Most Affordable Option

Even during a snowy weekend, Eco-Tech remains one of the most cost-effective recycling solutions in Waterloo Region. For comparison, regional waste facilities typically charge a $12.00 minimum per-vehicle fee that often exceeds Eco-Tech’s winter charges. Eco-Tech keeps pricing simple, fair, and customer-focused — making responsible recycling accessible for everyone.

❄️ Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead for a Smooth Winter Visit

Winter Saturdays at Eco-Tech run a bit differently because safety matters. The $5 Winter Maintenance Fee is not designed to be a penalty — it’s a practical way to ensure snow and ice are cleared quickly and properly so you can drop off your recycling with confidence.

If you’re planning a visit, a quick check of the weather or a shift to a weekday drop-off can make your trip even easier.

We look forward to welcoming you this winter season and supporting our community in recycling safely and responsibly. Please be aware that all customers must enter through the front entrance during winter Saturdays. To keep things fair for everyone, any attempts to avoid the Winter Maintenance Fee by accessing the rear of the facility will be addressed — this area is monitored by surveillance, and items brought to the back will be declined. Customers will be asked to use the front entrance before drop-off can proceed.

Thank you for your cooperation and for helping us maintain a safe, respectful environment for all visitors.