Metro Vancouver Organics Ban

Warning message

Some recycling and solid waste facilities are temporarily closed, operating with reduced hours, or accepting a limited range of materials – please call ahead. Consider delaying your visit to facilities unless absolutely necessary by storing dry recyclables and other items at home temporarily.

As of January 1, 2015, residents and businesses are asked to separate food scraps and clean wood from regular garbage under Metro Vancouver's organics disposal ban. 

All businesses and residential buildings are encouraged to plan and introduce food scraps recycling programs. There will be a phased in approach, with financial enforcement beginning July 1, 2015 for non-compliance. These fines will be placed on the waste haulers, rather than directly upon the resident or business that is generating the organic material.

RCBC staff will be answering questions and providing contacts for commercial and multi-family dwelling organics pick-up services. Contact the BC Recycling Hotline at 604-RECYCLE (604-732-9253) for more information.  

Information for Residents 

Currently local municipalities collect food scraps from about 95% of the region's single family homes. Many businesses, apartments and condos are establishing food scraps recycling either through their city, waste hauler, or an occupant-driven initiative.

Information for Businesses 

Information for Apartments & Condos

Additional Information