Ottawa residents dealing with an old fridge in the basement, leftover reno metal, or a barbecue that's seen better days know the frustration well: the City of Ottawa doesn't collect appliances or scrap metal as part of regular curbside pickup. You're on your own — unless you know where to look.
The good news is that several free options exist to clear that clutter without spending a dime or renting a truck.
City of Ottawa Drop-Off Depots
The City operates several Waste Drop-Off Centres where residents can bring large metal items and old appliances at no charge year-round. The main facility on Swansea Crescent accepts scrap metal, bulky waste, and most major appliances. Proof of Ottawa residency — a utility bill or photo ID — is typically required at the gate.
The city also runs seasonal Community Environment Days at rotating locations across Ottawa each spring and fall. Dates are posted on the City of Ottawa website a few weeks in advance. If you don't have access to a truck, these events are worth timing your cleanout around.
Private Scrap Metal Pickup Companies
Several private scrap dealers in Ottawa offer free residential pickup — particularly for large loads, appliances, HVAC units, or anything with significant copper or aluminum content. Because scrap metal has real resale value, dealers are often willing to come to your door at no charge.
Local independent dealers service homes across Ottawa, Nepean, Gloucester, and surrounding areas. For a single small appliance, some require a minimum haul, so calling ahead is always smart.
Pro tip: If you're comfortable doing it safely, strip out any copper tubing or wire before the pickup — it raises the scrap value and can be the difference between a dealer showing up or not.
Habitat for Humanity Ottawa ReStore
If your appliances still work, ReStore is worth a call before sending anything to the scrapyard. Habitat for Humanity Ottawa accepts washers, dryers, fridges, and other large appliances in working condition, and offers free pickup for qualifying donations. The proceeds fund affordable housing projects across the city — a much better outcome than the recycling bin.
Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace
Don't overlook the obvious: post the item free on Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace. In Ottawa's active secondhand communities, metal items — appliances, BBQs, gym equipment, old shelving — are routinely claimed within hours. Label it "free, must pick up" and someone with a truck will often come the same day. This works especially well in denser neighbourhoods like Westboro, Centretown, and Vanier.
What Not to Do
Avoid leaving scrap metal on the curb and hoping it disappears. Ottawa bylaw officers do issue fines for illegal dumping, and prolonged curbside clutter tends to generate neighbour complaints quickly.
Between city depots, private dealers, donation options, and free listings, Ottawa residents have no shortage of ways to deal with scrap responsibly — and usually for free.
Source: Ottawa Life Magazine
