New Ontario Fire Code requirements for carbon monoxide alarms in existing residential homes took effect today, Jan. 1, 2026, and Ramara residents are being urged to make sure their homes comply.

Under the updated Fire Code, all existing residential homes that contain a potential source of carbon monoxide must have properly installed and maintained CO alarms, according to a Township of Ramara bulletin. The change is aimed at protecting residents from the gas, which is colourless, odourless and potentially deadly.

Ramara Fire & Rescue is reminding homeowners to look for certification marks from recognized testing agencies such as CSA, ULC or ETL to ensure a device meets Canadian safety standards.

Recycling service changes

The bulletin also confirms residential recycling collection in Ramara is now managed by Circular Materials, a not-for-profit organization appointed by producers under Ontario's Extended Producer Responsibility framework. Collection stays on the same day and uses the same carts, though recycling and organics are handled by separate trucks from different contractors, meaning pickup times may differ.

The County of Simcoe continues to handle garbage and organics collection and operates waste drop-off facilities as usual. Questions about recycling, including missed pickups and cart replacements, should go to Emterra at 1-888-597-1541.

Winter parking and local deadlines

Residents are reminded that overnight parking is prohibited on all municipal Ramara roadways between midnight and 7 a.m. from Nov. 15 through April 15.

The township is accepting applications from residents interested in serving on its Appeal Tribunal, an independent quasi-judicial body established under Bylaw 2020.66 that hears appeals related to bylaws including licensing, short-term rental accommodations and canine control. The application deadline is Jan. 27, 2026.

Seniors are invited to a Seniors Social on Monday, Jan. 26, featuring guest speaker Karen J. Moore speaking about ADHD. The township's winter programs are underway, and registration for March Break camp has opened, with day camp counsellor job postings also live at ramara.ca/employment.

The Orillia & Area Food Strategy Planning Group is seeking input from farmers, food businesses and community partners at a feedback session on Jan. 29 at the Orillia Public Library, with a light meal at 12:30 p.m. and the session running from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Online feedback options are available for those who can't attend in person.

Ramara's library is holding a membership drive through January and February. Memberships are free for residents, seasonal taxpayers and township employees, and anyone who signs up, renews or refers a friend can be entered in a draw for prizes.

The township's 2026 municipal and school board election is set for Monday, Oct. 26, 2026, with online and telephone voting opening Oct. 8. Residents can check the voters' list and find candidate information at ramara.ca/election.

The township administration building, at 2297 Highway 12 in Brechin, is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Residents can also sign up for the Alertable-based community information system to receive emergency and township alerts by email, phone or fax.