The first week of 2026 brought several changes that touch everyday life in Markham. Here is a quick guide.
1. More items belong in the blue box
Since Jan. 1, curbside recycling has been run by producers through Circular Materials Ontario. Chip bags, coffee cups, black plastic, Styrofoam and plastic film are among the newly accepted items, and missed pickups now go to Miller Waste at 1-855-752-3762.
2. School bus cancellations can be split by area
Starting Jan. 5, York Region's student transportation service is piloting two areas for bad-weather cancellations. Markham is in the South Service Area, and buses can now be cancelled region-wide or in just one area.
3. Warning symbols on packaged food
Health Canada's magnifying-glass symbol is now mandatory on prepackaged foods high in saturated fat, sugars or sodium.
4. Tougher driving penalties
Impaired drivers convicted of causing death now face a lifetime licence suspension, and repeat car thieves face escalating suspensions, under Highway Traffic Act changes in force Jan. 1.
5. Assessment notices can arrive electronically
The Municipal Property Assessment Corporation can now deliver property assessment notices to owners electronically.
Coming later this year
Markham voters go to the polls on Oct. 26, 2026, for the municipal and school board elections. The candidate nomination period opens May 1 and closes Aug. 21 at 2 p.m.
