Winter Yard Waste Day on Supports Community FireSmart Efforts

The District of Sooke invites residents to participate in a Winter Yard Waste Day on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at the Sooke Parks Yard, 2070 Kaltasin Road, open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This free drop-off event provides residents with a convenient opportunity to dispose of yard waste and non-invasive plants, supporting community-wide FireSmart practices and seasonal property maintenance. 

“This event is a great chance for folks to tidy up their yards and take small steps that really do make a difference,” says Madison Crawford, FireSmart Program Coordinator. “Clearing out leaves, branches, and other debris - especially the material that builds up in gutters and around the home - helps reduce fire risk and sets us up well heading into the next season.”  

Residents are encouraged to bring: 

• Leaves, grass clippings, and small branches
• Prunings, shrubs, and non-invasive plants
• Other natural, compostable yard materials 

Please note: 

• This event is for yard waste only; no household garbage, construction debris, rocks, invasive species, or hazardous materials will be accepted.
• Invasive plants, such as Scotch Broom, Himalayan Blackberry and English ivy, are not accepted at this event. 

FireSmart Tips & Seasonal Yard Maintenance 

Winter is an ideal time to complete yard maintenance and get ahead on spring preparation. Consider the following FireSmart actions around your home:

• Clear leaves, needles, and debris from gutters, roofs, decks, and outdoor spaces where embers can accumulate.
• Trim low branches and thin overgrown vegetation to create space and reduce available fuel.
• Remove dry, dead, or decaying plant material, which can ignite more easily.
• Store firewood and combustible materials at least 10 metres from your home when possible.
• Keep outdoor areas organized, reducing clutter and preventing the buildup of natural debris over the winter months. 

These steps not only support wildfire resilience but also promote healthier landscaping, improved drainage, and reduced pest habitat—offering year-round benefits to homeowners. 

Complementary Event 

The Winter Yard Waste Day takes place the same day and time as the Sooke Lions Christmas Tree Chipping fundraiser by the SEAPARC sign. Residents are encouraged to support both activities: drop off yard waste at 2070 Kaltasin Road, then visit the Lions’ fundraiser to recycle your Christmas tree. 

Funding Acknowledgement 

This event is made possible with support from the Province of British Columbia and a Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) FireSmart Community Funding & Supports Program Grant. Their contributions help strengthen wildfire preparedness and mitigation efforts in Sooke. 

Learn More and Get Prepared 

Residents are invited to learn more about the District’s Emergency Management Plan and our all-of-community approach to emergency preparedness by visiting the District of Sooke website: Emergency Management Program and Preparedness page.  

 Event at a Glance 

• What: Winter Yard Waste Day (yard waste & non-invasive plants only)
• When: Saturday, January 10, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Where: District of Sooke Parks Yard — 2070 Kaltasin Road
• Cost: Free 
• Funding Partner: Province of BC and UBCM FireSmart Pogram Grant

Also happening on January 10: 

• Sooke Lions Christmas Tree Chipping Fundraiser
• When: Saturday, January 10, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Where: By the SEAPARC sign 
• What: Christmas Trees, Refundable Bottles - all yard waste must be dropped off at the Sooke Parks Yard, 2070 Kaltasin Road