The Town of Whitby is limiting booking availability until Nov. 1 while crews focus on seasonal priorities, including fall leaf and yard waste collection. According to a Town of Whitby notice, booking dates will open up again in early December.

The town is also urging residents to confirm they are on the Voters' List, learn about candidates and find out where to vote ahead of this year's municipal election. All of that information is available at whitby.ca/VOTE.

New rules for e-bikes and e-scooters

Riders of e-bikes and e-scooters are being asked to follow the town's new by-law, which spells out where and how the devices can be used. Riders are expected to wear a helmet, observe age limits and obey traffic rules, and to keep to trails and bike lanes rather than sidewalks.

The town is also asking riders to slow down around pedestrians, and says residents can report unsafe riding or by-law violations to help keep streets and trails safe.

Cleanup program and yard waste

Residents, businesses and community groups can take part in Whitby's Anti-Litter Cleanup Program, either by scheduling a one-time cleanup or by adopting a park, trail or roadway for a minimum of two years.

For yard waste, the town says collection begins April 6. Leaves, branches and garden waste must go in approved Kraft paper bags or clearly labelled reusable containers, set out on scheduled collection days. Residents are also encouraged to clear leaves and debris from storm catch basins near their property to help prevent flooding.

Park bookings and community programs

The town rents out three gazebos for picnics and gatherings: Grass Park at 41 Baldwin St., Rotary Centennial Park at 800 Brock St. and Rotary Sunrise Lake Park at 269 Water St. Reservations ran from May 9 to Oct. 4, 2026, with permit requests having opened March 23. Bookings can be made through a rental request form or by calling 905-668-7765. Barbecues are permitted only in designated shelters and require a permit.

Residents planning future yard projects can also order native shrubs through the town's partnership with Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests (LEAF). Shrubs come with mulch and care resources, with options for full-service planting or door-to-door delivery. LEAF offers themed bundles — including Butterfly, Edible, Native Bee, Privacy, Shade, Small Yard and Songbird — that let buyers get four shrubs for the price of three.

Home safety reminders

The town is also reminding homeowners to check their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Under new CO alarm rules that took effect earlier this year, any home with fuel-burning appliances, a fireplace or an attached garage must have CO alarms on every storey, even floors without bedrooms, and near all sleeping areas.

Residents are asked to review local bylaws and permit requirements before lighting any outdoor fire, at whitby.ca/Fire. Those who want a look at the new Fieldgate Sports Complex can also take a virtual self-guided tour from home.