The list below includes key points for discussion with multi-residential property developers on how waste management considerations can be incorporated into site plans for new multi-residential properties. Some of the items on this checklist are requirements in the City’s Solid Waste Collection Guidelines for Multi-Unit Residential Development, while others are best practices that promote waste diversion among residents.
Key points discussed with Developers
Solid Waste Collection
- Have you consulted the City’s Solid Waste Collection Design Guidelines, to see the design requirements for multi-residential waste collection?
- Enough space for truck to get on site to collect material, including:
- Min. 14 metre turning radius on-site for collection vehicle?
- Minimum width of 6 metres for internal access routes for vehicle to access property
- 4.4 m vertical clearance throughout access route, and a 6.1 m vertical loading clearance in collection area
- Townhome complexes with curbside set out must have enough room at the edge of their property to set out waste (wherever possible, design sites so that individual units can be served by curbside collection; common pads for curbside will not be approved- they will need to be on containerized service)
- Adequate space for snow removal on site, as trucks cannot collect if there is a build up of snow impeding entrance
Creating a convenient, successful program for residents
- What have you considered in creating
a waste disposal program that is convenient for residents to use once they move
into the building? Some suggestions include:
- Apartment building: Having a waste collection room on each floor, to minimize the distance residents need to travel to dispose of their waste (keep in mind- the property owner is responsible for moving all waste containers to the designated collection area on the delegated collection day)
- Apartment building: Not installing a chute to encourage waste diversion
- Townhome complex: not having residents travel more than 100 metres from unit to dispose of waste
Internal Bin Storage Considerations
- Have you considered a temperature-controlled waste storage space? Some properties find this reduces concerns with odours and pests like fruit flies or maggots
- Installed enough electrical for the room the be well-lit, or considered installing a frosted window for natural light? It is important to create a well-list, clean space for residents to dispose of waste
- Provide a hose bib for residents and property staff to use to clean bins after they are emptied?
External Bin Storage Considerations
- Are the bins enclosed to reduce litter and improve property aesthetics?
- Is there enough lighting for the space to be well-lit at night, for resident and staff safety?
- Will the area be well-shaded in the summer, to reduce smells associated with garbage and food waste? This could be accomplished by planting trees around the refuse area, or placing it within a proximity of the building that would allow it to be covered by shade for most, if not all, of the day
- Townhome complexes: if each household will have their own green bin, is there a space designed for them to store the bins (in a garage or other external enclosure)
- Provide a hose bib for residents and property staff to use to clean bins after they are emptied?
In-unit design considerations
- Allocate space in each unit for residents to store garbage, recycling, and green bin containers. Potential solutions include under counter storage solutions
- For townhome complexes with individual driveways that have been approved for curbside collection, ensure there is a sheltered spot outside of their unit for residents to store recycling and green bins (for property aesthetics, and to reduce blowing waste or litter concerns)
