Join an Earth Day Community Clean-up

Before you register, review the roles and responsibilities for City staff, group leaders, and participants.

City staff:

• approve the park location and provide tools and supplies
• lead and monitor each activity (except litter cleanups)
• give an orientation to ensure tasks are completed safely

Group leaders (18+):

• review key information and safety guidelines before registering
• recruit and supervise participants
• ensure participants wear protective clothing and sign waivers

Group participants:

• can include family, friends, neighbours, schools, faith groups or corporate teams
• should be at least 14 years old (recommended)
• must sign a consent form; children under 18 must be listed under a guardian
• take part in moderate physical activity, including bending, lifting, digging, pushing wheelbarrows and walking on uneven terrain

Follow these guidelines to keep activities safe for everyone.

Personal safety:

• wear closed-toe shoes, gloves, and long pants and sleeves
• group leaders should bring a first aid kit and cell phone for emergencies
• only use tools provided by city staff
• be prepared for moderate physical activity

Park safety:

• stay within park boundaries
• watch for hazards like uneven ground, branches, stinging plants and insects, or slippery areas near water
• suspend activities during unsafe weather conditions, such as thunderstorms

Litter cleanup safety:

• pick up litter only
• use special bags and gloves provided
• if you're organizing your own clean-up, report cleanup results using the instructions in your supply kit
  
  
• Don’t pick up:
  • sharp items (glass, metal, objects that could cut)
  • needles or syringes – contact 519-886-1550 during business hours or email sharpscleanup@waterloo.ca 
  • hazardous waste (batteries, propane tanks, paints, solvents, chemicals)
  • bulky or unstable objects, such as furniture
  • active or abandoned campsites or shelters

How to report dangerous dumping:

• for registered cleanups, follow instructions in your supply kit to report results
• use the Report an Issue form to report dumping, large litter issues or active or abandoned campsites or shelters