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.

Mandatory Waste Source Separation will require that all business, multi-family dwellings and institutions have bins for garbage, food waste and recycling, or contract for post-collection sorting (only available for existing businesses, multi-family dwellings and institutions).

This bylaw applies to every residential dwelling and business in:

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

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!