As of September 1, two important new standards for waste collection will come into effect. It is therefore important to read the information below.
1. Compliant bin
Starting on September 1, 2019, all residents must use a green, black or grey wheeled bin with a European plug for waste collection. The bin must have a maximum capacity of 360 litres and maximum weight of 100 kg when filled.
Below is an example of a compliant bin along with examples of containers that may not be used for household waste collection.
Residents who already have a black or grey bin, in good condition, that meets these specifications may use it for waste collection. Blue and brown bins cannot be accepted for garbage collection as they are reserved for collecting materials for recycling and composting.
2. Allowed waste volume per unit
To reduce the amount of landfill-bound waste, a limit of one bin per collection is set, effective September 1, 2019, for spring and summer and two bins for autumn and winter. Any additional bin or item left at the curb cannot be collected.
Example of compliant bin
How to purchase a compliant bin?
Please note that you have to purchase a green, black or grey bin that meets the above specifications. To assist you in this regard, the Municipality has prepared a list of businesses that sell the appropriate bin (the list includes pricing per unit).
View the list of businesses that sell this type of bin
Containers unsuitable for garbage collection
- Blue or brown bins
- Bins that do not comply with the standards listed above
- Boxes and bags placed at the curb
- Any item exceeding the limit allowed per collection
Why are there new standards?
The Municipality of Chelsea is following in the footsteps of several other municipalities in Quebec to meet the government’s requirements for the reduction of residual materials by 2020, which target three specific objectives:
- Stop the waste of resources
- Help achieve the objectives of the Climate Change Action Plan
- Empower all stakeholders involved in the management of residual materials
These new standards are a way of encouraging residents to reduce the amount of waste produced per unit and, as a result, help to reduce landfills, which are already at full capacity. The 2020 plan includes a complete ban of organic and recyclable materials from garbage bins to minimize the amount of final waste going to landfills. Improving our performance at this level will also save money as we avoid the financial penalties set by the government for failure to achieve objectives and help the Municipality pay less in landfilling fees.
It will also facilitate the contractor’s ability to refuse items that exceed the allowed limits. Residents will also be able to measure the amount of waste they produce and take the necessary actions to reduce their environmental footprint.
Use of the appropriate bins also facilitates the garbage-collection process for waste-management contractors. In addition, it ensures greater cleanliness throughout the region since these robust containers are less likely to spew waste.
What happens if I don't have a bin that meets the new standards?
As of September 1, 2019, items placed in non-compliant bins will not be collected. It is therefore important that you comply by this date to avoid any inconvenience.
How many bins can I put out on the curb?
The approved number of bins per collection is one in spring and summer and two in autumn and winter.
What can I do with my old garbage bin?
We strongly advise you to keep it! You can mark it with a “G” and use it to collect green waste or excess compost. There is no quantity restriction for the collection of compost.
