1

                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.1

               CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

     We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Waste Connections, Inc.
registration statements listed below of our report dated February 14, 2001, with
respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule of Waste
Connections, Inc. included in the Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended
December 31, 2000:

     Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-42096) pertaining to the Second
     Amended and Restated 1997 Stock Option Plan of Waste Connections, Inc.;

     Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-72113) pertaining to the First
     Amended and Restated 1997 Stock Option Plan of Waste Connections, Inc.;

     Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-63407) pertaining to the 1997
     Stock Option Plan of Waste Connections, Inc.;

     Registration Statement (Form S-4 No. 333-65615);

     Registration Statement (Form S-4 No. 333-83825);

     Registration Statement (Form S-3 No. 333-87269); and,

     Registration Statement (Form S-3 No. 333-87703).

                                                               ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Sacramento, California
March 16, 2001