Mandatory Waste Source Separation

The Regional District of Nanaimo is aiming to divert 90 per cent of the waste generated in the region away from landfills. To help achieve this goal, the RDN is introducing the Mandatory Waste Source Separation (MWSS) Bylaw in conjunction with the Waste Hauler Licensing (WHL) Bylaw beginning in 2025.

What is Mandatory Waste Source Separation?

Mandatory Waste Source Separation is a bylaw that requires the use of separated garbage, recycling and organics bins to divert waste from the landfill. 

Single family homes throughout the RDN are already required to have three-stream (recycling, organics, garbage) collection through the curbside program and now Mandatory Waste Source Separation will require this for multi-family, commercial, institutional and industrial properties through the region. The key difference is that Mandatory Waste Source Separation allows you to work with your waste hauler to determine what your collection program will look like.

Why is the RDN introducing this requirement?

The RDN has a goal to reach 90 per cent waste diversion from the landfill. The new Mandatory Waste Source Separation Bylaw will help move the needle by including all properties in the RDN in the diversion requirements.

When will this be required?

The MWSS bylaw will be implemented January 1, 2025. Residents will have 6 months to become compliant with the bylaw.

Who does this apply to?

This bylaw applies to every business, multi-family dwelling and institution in:

• Nanaimo
• Lantzville
• Parksville
• Qualicum Beach
• RDN Electoral Areas

Who is going to collect this waste?

Talk to your current hauler and see what they offer, and if that doesn't work for you, you can choose to work with whichever waste hauler meets your needs.  Waste haulers are empowered via new licensing to facilitate three-stream collection and there are also incentives for them to reduce waste sent to the landfill.

Guidance For Business and Property Owners

There is a wide range of customers across our region and their needs vary. Some will want their hauler to help figure out how many bins they need and where they should be placed. Others may ask for a change to their schedule. To ensure residents know how to use their bins, we suggest at a minimum:

• let customers know that there is a new rule for source separation of waste,
• talk to them about the different services you offer, and
• provide updated signage for indoor and outdoor bin areas, and wherever waste is generated, based on the service they sign up for.

Learn more about the adoption of the bylaw and how to get ready on our engagement sites!