Multi-family waste diversion in Calgary

Multi-family complexes like apartments, condos and townhomes must separate recycling as well as food and yard waste from their garbage for diversion.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for multi-family waste. Building owners and managers have the flexibility to decide the best way to manage their waste so long as they meet the following criteria.

Waste services required for your multi-family location

As per Waste Bylaw 4M2020, apartments, condos and townhomes must:

  • Provide separate bins for recycling, compost and garbage. All three options must be made available for residents to use.
  • Provide adequate size and number of containers for each waste stream.
  • Set up clear signage to advise residents on how to use the bins properly.
  • Provide education on your recycling and compost programs to residents once per year as well as when a new resident moves in. 

If you have questions about setting up a waste program at a multi-family property you manage, fill out the online service request or contact 311.

Multi-family inquiry

  • A simple checklist for Waste Bylaw compliance

    Download the new Waste Bylaw and Best Practices Checklist to make sure you check all the boxes for bylaw-compliant recycling, compost and garbage collection in your multi-family complex.

    Download the checklist here

  • Join our mailing list

    To receive tips and updates about multi-family waste diversion and bylaw reminders.

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Why do we need recycling and composting programs?

Most of what goes into the garbage is actually recyclable or compostable. Diverting recyclables and food and yard waste from the landfill saves resources by giving these materials a second life, putting them back to productive use and saving a generation’s worth of landfill space.

Frequently asked questions

Is your building a multi-family complex?

Multi-family complexes are defined as five or more units on the same parcel of land. 

This includes high-rise and low-rise apartments, townhouses, condos, mobile home parks, housing co-operatives, and housing developments on private roads.

What do I do if the building I live in doesn’t have a recycling or food and yard waste bin?

Under Waste Bylaw 4M2020, your multi-family building is required to provide bins for recycling, food and yard waste, and garbage. Speak to your building manager or landlord: 

  • If your building does not have either a recycling and/or a food and yard waste program
  • If your waste bins are regularly overflowing

How many waste containers am I required to have on my property?

The Waste Bylaw requires you to have adequate numbers and locations of containers for your complex, including separate collection of recycling, food and yard waste and garbage.

As long as your containers are not overflowing between collection days, you are meeting this requirement.

For more information, see Choosing bins for your complex.

Which companies provide collection services for multi-family properties?

For a list of collection companies servicing multi-family complexes, visit the Waste Hauler Directory for Business and Property Managers

Who can answer questions about my building’s waste programs?

Property Managers and Owners are responsible for sending residents waste-related educational materials every year and when new tenants move in.

For any questions about your building’s specific waste programs, contact your Property Manager or condo board.

To support these education requirements, The City of Calgary offers templates and posters for multi-family buildings.