Halifax loosens leaf collection rules after run on paper bags
City backtracks on new rule against plastic after stores unable to keep enough paper bags in stock
Halifax has given home owners struggling to properly bag their leaves and yard waste a reprieve.
On Aug. 1, new rules for sorting garbage came into effect and included a prohibition on using plastic bags for excess leaves. People were told to use heavy paper bags instead.
But retail stores have been unable to keep those bags in stock.
A spokeswoman for the city says the new program is a victim of its own success.
"We understand that residents are trying to do their part by properly preparing this material curbside but have been struggling to find these bags," said Tiffany Chase.
"So for the fall we will continue to allow both clear and orange plastic bags."
The rules banning plastic bags for yard waste will take effect once again in the spring.
City officials hope by that time stores will have a better idea how many paper bags they need on hand.