March 9, 2000
To: East York Community Council
Etobicoke Comunity Council
North York Community Council
Scarborough Community Council
Toronto Community Council
York Community Council
From: Angelos Bacopoulos, General Manager, Solid Waste Management Services
Subject: Proposed Solid Waste Management Services Requirements for Developments and Redevelopments
Purpose:
To provide each Community Council the opportunity to comment on the proposed Solid Waste Management Services
Requirements for Developments and Redevelopments.
Financial Implications and Impact Statement:
There are no direct financial implications as a result of this report.
Recommendations:
It is recommended that:
(1) this report be received for information; and,
(2) that comments regarding the draft document entitled Requirements for City of Toronto Garbage and Recycling
Collection at Developments and Redevelopments be forwarded no later that April 12, 2000 to the contact noted at the end
of this report.
Background:
Currently, each Community Council Area has set different standards regarding development criteria for solid waste
collection. Development criteria includes, but is not limited to, roadway width requirements for solid waste collection
vehicles, overhead allowances, loading facilities, collection points, storage spaces etc. The collection system and criteria
imposed on a development or redevelopment is dependent on the actual type of proposal submitted by the development
company. A harmonized set of procedures is required to ensure that all new developments and redevelopments are subject
to the same requirements and will be provided with the same level of service City-wide. Attached is a copy of the proposed
Requirements for City of Toronto Garbage and Recycling Collection at Developments and Redevelopments for comment.
In conjunction with the review by each Community Council, other stakeholders including architects, development
companies and property managers will be given the opportunity to review the draft document and provide their comments
to Solid Waste staff. Following this consultation process, the draft requirements will be presented to the Works Committee
in June, 2000.
Please note that these requirements will not apply to existing locations except in the case of redevelopments or where a
request for change of collection method or collection location has been made.
Comments:
The Works and Emergency Services Department reviews all development and redevelopment applications, rezoning
applications and condominium applications, along with some developments going to the Ontario Municipal Board and
Committee of Adjustment. Developments that don't go through the processes above, including proposals to change
collection points or the method of collection, must also be reviewed by the Department.
In order to qualify for City of Toronto garbage and recycling collection services, new developments or redevelopments
must adhere to the requirements outlined in the proposed document. These requirements are being proposed by Solid
Waste Management Services to ensure that any operational limitations have been revealed and proper planning procedures
are initiated to avoid problems following construction. Non-conformance to these requirements may result in the City
being unable to provide collection service due to access and health and safety issues.
While the document attempts to address all developments and redevelopments, there may be times when the location
dictates additional requirements due to such issues as layout or space restrictions.
Not all development and redevelopment requirements will be applicable in each Community Council Area, however, staff
have attempted to ensure that all requirements have been addressed appropriately and in sufficient detail to ensure that any
user has ample information to begin the planning procedure.
Most of the recommended criteria are currently applicable in each of the Community Council Areas. However, the
following summarizes key differences in the proposed requirements:
(a) Criteria for Collection at Multiple Household Locations
Currently, the Toronto Community Council Area requires that all multiple household developments provide a central
collection area and rarely provides door to door collection on private roadways. In all instances, the resident is required to
bring their garbage to a central collection point. Generally, all housing associated with townhouses, stacked townhouses
and other similar types of developments over 29 units are provided with bulk containers. Locations with fewer than 29
units are provided with collection from a central curbside collection point.
All other Community Council Areas provide door to door collection on private roadways from townhouses and other
similar types of developments. The private roadway must be constructed to the standards set by each of the Community
Council Areas.
Bulk collection is currently the most efficient and cost effective method of garbage collection provided by the City.
Additionally, loose garbage is eliminated from private and/or public property and residents of the complex are provided
with a sufficient storage facility for their garbage. Collection of garbage and recyclables door to door is the costliest
method collection currently supplied by the City. However, collection from a central collection point increases productivity
and decreases costs in comparison to door to door collection.
Therefore, in an effort to increase productivity and lower costs, it is proposed that the draft requirements allow for the
provision of garbage and recycling collection services from central collection points (either bulk lift collection or a central
collection point at the curb) at all multiple household locations, including townhouses with private roadways.
(b) Public Lane Collection
Currently, the Toronto Community Council Area is the most affected by developments and redevelopments fronting onto
existing public laneways. Typically public laneways in older parts of the city are narrow, potentially deadended and not
maintained in the winter months. Collection from public streets will potentially eliminate the use of public laneways as
storage areas and creates a safe collection environment for both staff and the public. Therefore, it is proposed that public
street set out points be required to ensure that vehicles can safely and efficiently provide collection. Only in instances
where public street set out points are not feasible will public laneway collection be considered and the requirements
outlined in the requirements must be met prior to approval.
(c) Recycling Requirements
All Community Council Areas currently require that all new developments and redevelopments provide adequate recycling
facilities for residents. This may include a recycling room in a high rise complex or a recycling compound central to all
residents. It is proposed that the requirements stipulate that the recycling system in a development or redevelopment be
planned to ensure that it is as convenient as the garbage collection system. Developers and property managers, for example,
may opt to include chute recycling systems, some of which are currently operating in some residential buildings within the
City or recycling rooms on every floor of an apartment complex. This requirement allows for creativity and may open the
door for entrepreneurial activities. It is anticipated that this requirement, coupled will a mandatory recycling requirement,
will significantly boost recycling rates in multiple household dwellings.
(d) Bulky Item Collection
Currently, all Community Council Areas, with the exception of North York, collect bulky items (furniture, mattresses, etc.)
manually from a designated collection point utilizing a rear load packer. The North York Community Council Area
requires multiple household developments to place bulky items in 4 cubic yard bulk bins to be collected weekly as part of
the bulk collection contract.
It was determined that while the cost of collecting bulky items manually exceeds the cost of collecting items with a bulk
lift system, the bulk bins limit the amount and type of material that can be collected. As a result, property managers are
required to purchase additional bins or, if space is a problem, to hire private contractors to remove excess materials. In
addition, safety concerns have been raised with regards to the overhead tipping of items such as couches and the potential
for items falling as the bulk bin is being elevated. While staff are not aware of any problems that have occurred in the
North York Community Council Area, safety concerns are of paramount importance across the City.
In addition, the nature of the materials collected greatly increases the wear and tear on a front end collection vehicle and, as
such, this type of additional operating expense is expected to be reflected in any future contract costs.
Therefore, it is recommended that the City continue to provide rear load collection of bulky items to all new developments
and redevelopments. While the North York Community Council Area has contracted the provision of bulk collection
services at all existing developments, all new developments will be serviced with an existing rear load vehicle, thereby
increasing the productivity of our fleet.
Conclusions:
The proposed requirements for solid waste collection for developments and redevelopments have been prepared to ensure a
fair and equitable collection system for our customers and also addresses opportunities for improved service delivery,
increased waste diversion and increased efficiencies through standardizing collection practices. Following the consultation
process, feedback will be incorporated into the draft requirements prior to submission to the Works Committee in June ,
2000.
Contact:
Catharine Daniels
Senior Analyst, Policy Development
Solid Waste Management Services
Works and Emergency Services
Phone: 392-4632
Fax: 392-4754
E-mail: daniels@toronto.ca
Angelos Bacopoulos
General Manager
Solid Waste Management Services
Attachment:
Requirements for City of Toronto Garbage and Recycling Collection and New Developments and Redevelopments
(access public consultation.doc)
REQUIREMENTS FOR CITY OF TORONTO
GARBAGE AND RECYCLING COLLECTION AT
NEW DEVELOPMENTS AND REDEVELOPMENTS
Draft
17 March 2000
Table of Contents
Part I - Introduction
General Information
Definitions Page
Part II - Collection Service Requirements
General Garbage Collection Requirements
General Recycling Collection Requirements
Storage Requirements
Criteria to be Met Prior to Commencement of Collection Services
Part III - Development and Redevelopment Collection Requirements
Single Family Residential Development and Redevelopment Requirements
Small Residential Development Collection Requirements
(2 - 7 Units)
Residential Development Collection Requirements
(8 - 29 Units)
Large Residential Development Collection Requirements
(30+ Units)
Live/Work Development Collection Requirements
Retirement Home Collection Requirements
Mixed Use Collection Requirements
Small Commercial Collection Requirements
Large Commercial
Industrial
Other Developments
Appendix A - Bulk Collection Requirements
Appendix B - Multiple Household Residential Recycling - Specific Requirements
Appendix C - Application form
Appendix D - Conversion Tables
If you have any questions regarding these requirements please contact your representative at the City of Toronto:
District 1 (Toronto and York Community Council Areas) 392-7724
District 2 (Etobicoke Community Council Area)394-8398
District 3 (North York Community Council Area)395-0323
District 4 (Scarborough Community Council Area)396-5205
Requirements for City of Toronto Garbage/Recycling
Collection at
Developments and Redevelopments
Part I - Introduction
A. General Information
1. The Department reviews all development and redevelopment applications, rezoning applications and condominium
applications along with some developments going to the Ontario Municipal Board and Committee of Adjustments.
Developments that don't go through the processes above, including proposals to change collection points, method of
collection or if there is a new building planned or a change of use and/or an existing building is being expanded by more
than one-third its original size, must be reviewed by the Department.
2. In order to qualify for City of Toronto garbage/recycling collection services, new developments or redevelopments
(buildings) must adhere to the requirements outlined in this document. It should be noted that these are general
requirements only and the City reserves the right to enact additional requirements during a detailed review of specific
projects. It should also be noted that this document is to be used in conjunction with, not in place of, all applicable building
codes and the Site Plan Control process. (Further information on these building codes and the Site Plan Control process
can be obtained from the City of Toronto Urban Planning and Development Services).
3. Developments and redevelopments that meet the City's eligibility requirements must provide the required facilities
which allow for municipal collection of garbage and recyclable materials. If the facilities cannot, as determined by the
Developer and the Department, be provided, the requirements will be listed in the legal documentation concerning the
development and notice given to all future owners of the need to provide and maintain private collection service until such
requirements are met.
4. All municipal collection services are subject to the conditions required by the applicable By-laws.
5. Please refer to the appropriate section when preparing site plans. To ensure that the City of Toronto Works and
Emergency Services Department has the opportunity to review site plans as they pertain to garbage/recycling collection,
applicants must include details on:
Ø access routes
Ø loading facilities
Ø garbage rooms/storage facilities
Ø recycling rooms/storage facilities
Ø size and number of garbage containers to be used
Ø number of dwelling units in the development/total ground floor area/number of stories
7. This document is a guideline only. The Department will review each development or redevelopment individually and
ultimately reserves the right to designate the type of collection, access and storage required.
8. Failure to comply with these guidelines and any additional requirements imposed by the commissioner will result in
collection services not being approved or suspension of collection services.
B. Definitions
"Bulk Lift Garbage Collection" shall mean the collection of Garbage from an approved, properly covered watertight metal
container, in sound and good working order with a capacity of no less than 1.76 cubic metres and no greater than 4.6 cubic
metres and compatible with the City's or its agents collection equipment.
"Bulk Lift Recycling Collection" shall mean collection of Recyclable Materials from an approved properly covered
watertight metal container, in sound and good working order with a capacity of no less than 2.3 cubic metres and no greater
than 3.06 cubic metres and compatible with the City's or its agent's collection equipment.
"Bulky Item Collection" shall mean the collection of bulky items, as defined by The applicable By-laws and shall include
furniture in excess of 20 kilograms.
"By-law" shall mean the following By-laws and any amendments, and are applicable to the appropriate geographic areas,
and shall include any new solid waste collection by-laws as approved by Council from time to time:
Chapter 309, City of Toronto Municipal Code
Chapter 149, Etobicoke Municipal Code
Borough of East York By-law 1-86
City of York By-law 2890-78
City of Scarborough By-law 24478
City of North York By-law 21732
"Cart Recycling Collection" shall mean the collection of Recyclable Materials from a 340 or 360 litre plastic bin equipped
with wheels and meeting City specifications.
"Collection Point" shall mean a location designated by the Commissioner for collection of Garbage and Materials.
"Commercial" shall mean a property used for retail establishments, service establishments, commercial recreational
purposes, entertainment purposes or offices and includes non-residential property and non-institutional property
"Commissioner" shall mean the Commissioner of the Works and Emergency Services Department or his/her designate.
"Department" shall mean the Works and Emergency Services Department.
"Curbside Door to Door Collection" shall mean Garbage and Materials collected in Regulation Containers from the
approved Collection Point abutting the property and as close as possible to the edge of the roadway without obstructing the
roadway or sidewalk and not extending beyond the frontage of the property.
"Dwelling Unit" shall mean a living accommodation comprising a single housekeeping unit, designed or intended for use
by one person or by persons living together as a family, and consisting of a room or suite of 2 or more rooms in which both
culinary and sanitary facilities are provided for the exclusive use of this person or persons.
"Garbage" shall mean waste from private or public property, within the City, but does not include the following as defined
in the applicable By-laws:
(a) Recyclable and compostable materials.
(b) Prohibited Waste.
"Garbage Collection Services" shall mean those Services provided by the City or its agent(s) for the removal of Garbage
from public or private property.
"Household Residence" shall mean a building containing dwelling rooms and/or fewer than eight (8) dwelling units.
"Institutional Property" shall mean schools, hospitals, libraries, places of worship, City-owned properties and facilities
which provide community support services.
"Industry" shall mean an industry involved in the processing or fabrication of products.
"Industrial" shall mean developments or redevelopments for industrial uses.
"Infill Townhouse/Infill Rowhouse" shall mean one of a series of more than two attached buildings:
(i) each building comprising a dwelling unit;
(ii) each building divided vertically from another by a party wall;
(iii) each building located on a lot; and
(iv) some or all of the buildings facing a private roadway, laneway, driveway or courtyard.
"Large Commercial Development" shall mean developments or redevelopments for commercial use whereby the
development/redevelopment does not meet the criteria for small commercial development.
"Large Residential Development" shall mean developments and redevelopments of greater than 29 units and shall include
stacked townhouses, infill townhouses and high-rise multiunit residential buildings.
"Live/Work Development" shall mean a dwelling unit that is also used for work purposes, provided only the resident or
residents of such accommodation work in the dwelling unit.
"Materials" shall mean non-contaminated waste items which are compostable, recyclable or reusable.
"Mixed Use Development" shall mean any development containing a combination of residential uses with non-residential
uses, and any accessory uses thereto.
"Multiple Household Residence" shall mean a building used mainly for residential purposes containing eight (8) or more
dwelling units.
"Other Developments" shall mean all other developments/redevelopment that have not been accounted for.
"Recyclable Materials" shall mean any Materials for which the City provides a recovery program as set out in the
applicable By-laws.
"Recycling Collection Program" shall mean those Services provided by the City or its agent(s) for the removal of
Recyclable materials from public or private property.
"Regulation Container" shall mean a garbage container or a recycling container or a yardwaste container as defined in the
applicable By-laws.
"Residential Development" shall mean developments and redevelopments of no less than 8 units and no more than 29 units
and include apartment style buildings, infill townhouses and rowhouses.
"Residential Property" shall mean either a household residence or multiple household residence.
"Retirement Home" shall mean a residential building in which the proprietor supplies for gain lodging with or without
meals and does not include a hostel, hotel, motel, rooming house or any of the like.
"Single Family Residential Development" shall mean a development or redevelopment of detached, semidetached,
rowhouse or townhouses facing a public city owned and maintained street or laneway.
"Single Point Collection" shall mean collection of Garbage and Materials from a common collection location used by all
occupants of a development.
"Small Commercial Development" shall mean developments or redevelopments for commercial use only whereby the
development/redevelopment has been approved by the Commissioner for the collection of garbage and/recyclables
"Small Residential Development" shall mean developments and redevelopments of up to and including 7 units and include
plexes, low rise building, infill or stacked townhouses.
"Special Collection Services" shall mean those services provided by the City for the collection of Materials and other items
which require special handling, including bulky Items and White Goods.
"Stacked Townhouse" shall mean one of a series of more than two attached buildings comprising duplexes or triplexes or
both, and:
(i) each building is divided vertically from one another by a party wall; and
(ii) each building is located on a lot.
"Townhouse/Rowhouse" shall mean one of a series of more than two attached buildings:
(i) each building comprising one dwelling unit;
(ii) each building divided vertically from another by a party wall;
(iii) each building located on a lot; and
(iv) each building faces a public street.
"White Goods" shall mean any major household appliance or metal object requiring Special Collection Services, including
those items set out in the applicable By-laws.
"Yardwaste" shall mean compostable Materials as set out in the applicable By-laws.
"Yard Waste Collection Services" shall mean those Services provided by the City or its agent(s) for the removal of Yard
Waste from public or private property.
Part II - General Requirements
Garbage collection service requirements
Outlined below are the general requirements for City garbage collection. Specific requirements based on the different types
of buildings are presented following this section. Please refer to the applicable By-laws for specific requirements for
collection.
A. General Requirements
% Garbage collection services are provided for non hazardous municipal type waste only. The City of Toronto does not
collect any manufacturers waste, hazardous waste, pathological waste, building materials or liquid waste. Refer to the
applicable By-laws for further details.
% Items such as refrigerators and stoves are not part of normal residential collection services. Special pickups have to be
arranged for these items with the City of Toronto. The City does not provide this service to institutional or commercial
establishments.
% Frequency of service is dependent on the class of property and location within the City. Please refer to the applicable
By-laws for specific requirements.
% Private access roads must be capable of holding heavy trucks without damage at all times of the year. The City is not
responsible for any roadway damage caused by normal use.
% Property management is responsible for moving bins during collection if so required. The City will not be responsible
for picking up bins which it cannot access from the collection vehicle.
% The City provides regularly scheduled collection services to eligible classes of property as defined in the applicable
By-laws. Any additional service requirements must be arranged and provided for at the expense of the property owner.
% The City will collect garbage and recyclable materials only in accordance with the applicable By-laws.
% Yardwaste collection service is subject to the approved garbage collection method and the applicable By-laws.
% The City will collect bulky items at approved collection points and in accordance with the applicable By-laws.
% The City reserves the right to refuse or discontinue collection services to those developments or redevelopments that do
not adhere to the requirements contained in this document or the applicable By-laws.
Recycling Collection Service Requirements
The City of Toronto provides recycling collection to all locations receiving City garbage collection. All new developments
or redevelopments must participate in the recycling program. The City reserves the right to discontinue all collection
services to those locations not participating fully in the recycling program or those not adhering to the requirements
contained in this document.
B. General Requirements
% Curbside door to door recycling collection, utilizing blue boxes and grey boxes takes place once every other week or
alternating weekly, depending on location. Please refer to the appropriate By-laws for cart and bulk lift recycling collection
frequency.
% The following is a list of materials currently collected in the City's recycling program. Please note, this list is subject to
change at any time.
| Recyclable materials Collected by the City of Toronto |
| Commingled Material |
Fibre Material |
| Glass Bottles and Jars
Plastic Bottles and Jugs (with the #1 or #2 symbol)
Metal Food and Beverage Cans
Aluminum Foil Containers |
Newspapers and Telephone Books
Corrugated Cardboard
Egg Cartons, Cardboard Rolls and Kraft Paper Bags
Gift Wrap and Cards
Boxboard Boxes (e.g. cereal, tissues, detergent boxes)
Household Paper (e.g. junk mail, computer paper, writing
paper)
Magazines, Catalogues and Books
No Waxed Fibre will be collected |
% A minimum of two regulation containers (one for each recycling stream) are required. Signage indicating which
recyclable materials are to go into each container must be attached to the side of the containers. Signage is provided by the
City of Toronto.
% Containers must be unlocked and placed out at the designated collection point by 7:00 a.m. on the collection day.
% A letter from the Owner or property management company (the City will supply a standard sample letter) describing the
recycling program and a recycling information card, supplied by the City, must be distributed by the owner or property
management company to all tenants prior to start-up of the program. In order to ensure program success, this information
should be posted and/or re-distributed on a regular basis and provided to all new residents as they move in.
% A letter from the Owner or property management company (the City will supply a standard sample letter) describing the
requirements for proper disposal of household hazardous waste (HHW) must be distributed by the owner or property
management company. In order to ensure compliance with the applicable By-laws, this information should be posted
and/or re-distributed on a regular basis and provided to all new residents as they move in.
% Signs directing residents to the recycling area must be posted within the building or throughout a townhouse complex.
% It is the ultimate responsibility of the owner/tenant/property manager/superintendent to ensure that the containers are
not contaminated with non-recyclable products and that the appropriate recyclable materials are in the proper containers.
Containers that are contaminated will not be collected until they are cleaned out. Consistent contamination may result in
the termination of all services.
% An agreement form must be completed by the owner/tenant/property manager or superintendent prior to start-up. A
copy of the agreement forms are attached.
C. Storage Requirements
Depending on the type of development and collection method, sufficient on-site storage must be provided. The following
summarizes the required storage by collection method. Please refer to Part III - Development and Redevelopment
Collection Requirements for detailed requirements based on a specific type of development and collection method.
(i) Curbside Door to Door Garbage/Recycling Collection
The owner must provide a ventilated rodent proof internal space, external to the living area and on private property, of
sufficient size to store separated Garbage and Materials generated between collections. A minimum of 1.2 cubic metres of
space is required to store 1 blue box, 1 grey box and one 125 litre regulation garbage container. Storage must be sufficient
to store garbage for a minimum of one week and recyclable materials and yardwaste for a minimum of two weeks
(ii) Single Point Garbage/Recycling Collection
The owner must provide a ventilated rodent proof internal space, external to the living area and on private property, of
sufficient size to store separated garbage and materials generated between collection. A minimum of 1.2 cubic metres of
space is required to store 1 blue box, 1 grey box and one 125 litre regulation garbage container. Storage must be sufficient
to store garbage for a minimum of one week and recyclable materials and yardwaste for a minimum of two weeks
If sufficient storage is not provided in each household or commercial unit, then a central storage facility(s), convenient to
all residents and tenants must be made available. This central storage space(s) must be ventilated, rodent proof, external to
a living area and on private property and must be of sufficient size to store separated garbage, recyclable materials and
yardwaste generated by all residents and tenants between collections.
Sufficient internal or external storage must be provided by the owner to accommodate bulky items and white goods
generated by residents and tenants between scheduled collections.
(iii) Bulk Lift Garbage and Bulk Lift/Cart Recycling Collection
Garbage and recycling containers must be available to all residents daily.
Sufficient internal or external storage must be provided by the owner to accommodate bulky items and white goods
generated by residents and tenants between scheduled collections.
D. Criteria to be Met Before Municipal Collection Services will Commence
The Developer will be responsible for garbage and recycling collection within the development or redevelopment until the
following criteria have been met and the site has been approved by Solid Waste Management Services staff:
% The location is accessible and approved by the Commissioner.
% All roadways, access and storage areas have been completed as per the approved plan with no obstructions related to
construction and move-ins.
% The application and waiver form has been received and approved by the City.
Part III - Development and Redevelopment Collection Requirements
I.Single Family Residential Development Collection Requirements
(A) Single Family Homes Facing a Public Street
% Single family homes, with appropriate storage and facing a public street will be eligible for curbside door to door
collection for both garbage and recycling (using blue and grey boxes) collection.
% Garbage and recyclables must be stored in enclosed, rodent proof containers, on private property, between collection
days. The location of the storage area(s) will be to the satisfaction of the Commissioner.
(B) Single Family Homes Facing a Public Laneway
% Where a unit can be serviced by a public road, curbside door to door collection will be provided on the public road.
Where a unit can only be serviced by a public laneway, the following conditions will apply:
% The collection vehicle must be able to enter and exit in a forward motion
% The eligible property to be serviced must have an address on the public laneway
% The laneway width must be a minimum of 3.5 metres in an existing laneway and a minimum of 6 metres in a new
laneway
% Turning radii onto the laneway must be a minimum of 9 metres inside and 16 metres outside
% Overhead clearance throughout the laneway must be a minimum of 4.4 metres
% Garbage and recyclables must be stored in enclosed, rodent proof containers, on private property, between collection
days. The location of the storage area(s) will be to the satisfaction of the Commissioner.
Where the above criteria is met, single family homes will be eligible for curbside door to door collection of both garbage
and recyclable materials. Where the above criteria has not been met, units will be eligible for single point collection at an
approved collection point.
II.Small Residential Development Collection Requirements
% Residential locations containing 2 - 7 units are reviewed on an individual basis by the City. The collection location and
method will be to the satisfaction of the Commissioner.
(a) Townhouse/Rowhouse Units Facing a Public Street
% Townhouse/rowhouse units, with appropriate storage and facing a public street will be eligible for curbside door to door
collection for both garbage and recyclable materials (blue boxes and grey boxes).
% Garbage and recyclables must be stored in enclosed, rodent proof containers, on private property, between collection
days. The location of the storage area(s) will be to the satisfaction of the Commissioner.
(B) Townhouse/Rowhouse Units Facing a Public Laneway
% Where a unit can be serviced by a public road, curbside door to door collection will be provided on the public road.
Where a unit can only be serviced by a public laneway, the following conditions will apply:
% The collection vehicle must be able to enter and exit in a forward motion
% The eligible property to be serviced must have an address on the public laneway
% The laneway width must be a minimum of 3.5 metres in an existing laneway and a minimum of 6 metres in a new
laneway
% Turning radii onto the laneway must be a minimum of 9 metres inside and 16 metres outside
% Overhead clearance throughout the laneway must be a minimum of 4.4 metres
% Garbage and recyclables must be stored in enclosed, rodent proof containers, on private property, between collection
days. The location of the storage area(s) will be to the satisfaction of the Commissioner.
Where the above criteria is met, single family homes will be eligible for curbside door to door collection of both garbage
and recyclable materials. Where the above criteria has not been met, units will be eligible for single point collection at an
approved collection point.
(C) Townhouse/Rowhouse Units Facing a Private Laneway, Roadway or Driveway
SINGLE POINT GARBAGE COLLECTION
% Garbage must be placed out at the designated collection point in a pile on collection days in standard size garbage bags
capable of supporting 20 kgs when lifted. Refer to the applicable By-laws for specific details.
% Garbage must be stored in enclosed, rodent proof containers, on private property, between collection days. The location
of the storage area(s) will be to the satisfaction of the Commissioner.
% The storage area(s) must be kept clean and free of debris at all times and satisfy the storage requirements.
% The designated collection point must be kept clean and free of debris between collections.
SINGLE POINT RECYCLING COLLECTION
% Blue Boxes and Grey Boxes must be placed out at the designated collection point on collection days.
% Recyclable materials must be stored on private property between collection days.
% The storage area(s) must be kept clean and free of debris at all times and satisfy the storage requirements.
% The designated collection point must be kept clean and free of debris between
collections.
III.Residential Development Collection Requirements
Residential locations containing 8-29 units are reviewed on an individual basis by the City. The collection method for
individual buildings will be to the satisfaction of the Commissioner. The collection methods, are summarized below:
(A) Townhouse/Rowhouse Units Facing a Public Street
(not associated with an infill townhouse/rowhouse development, residential development or large
residential development)
% Townhouse/rowhouse units not associated with an infill townhouse/rowhouse development, residential development or
large residential development, with appropriate storage and facing a public street will be eligible for curbside door to door
collection for both garbage and recyclable materials.
% Garbage and recyclables must be stored in enclosed, rodent proof containers, on private property, between collection
days. The location of the storage area(s) will be to the satisfaction of the Commissioner.
(I) Townhouse/Rowhouse Units Facing a Private Laneway, Roadway or Driveway
(associated with an infill townhouse/rowhouse development, residential development or large
residential development)
SINGLE POINT GARBAGE COLLECTION
% Garbage must be placed out at curbside in a pile on collection days in standard size garbage bags capable of holding 20
kg when lifted. Refer to the applicable By-laws for specific requirements.
% Garbage must be stored in enclosed, rodent proof containers, on private property, between collection days. The location
of the storage area(s) will be to the satisfaction of the Commissioner.
% The storage area(s) must be kept clean and free of debris at all times and satisfy the storage requirements.
SINGLE POINT RECYCLING COLLECTION
(i) 8 - 15 Units
% Blue Boxes and Grey Boxes must be placed out at the designated collection point on collection days.
% Recyclable materials must be stored on private property between collection days.
(viii) 15 - 29 Units
% Recycling carts must be placed out at the designated collection point on collection days.
% Refer to Appendix "B" for requirements.
BULK LIFT GARBAGE COLLECTION
% In some instances, bulk collection may be the preferred collection system of the Department. In these cases, garbage
will be uncompacted and a minimum of 6 cubic yards of capacity (on wheels) per 25 units is
required.
IV.Large Residential Development Collection Requirements
GARBAGE COLLECTION
% Garbage must be mechanically compacted into regulation steel garbage containers at large residential developments in
excess of 30 units. Refer to Appendix A for requirements.
RECYCLING COLLECTION
% Cart recycling or bulk lift recycling will be provided based on current operational practices and the number of units in
the development. The Commissioner will determine the approved method. Refer to Appendix "B" for
requirements.
V.Live/Work Development Collection Requirements
GARBAGE COLLECTION
% Live/Work developments must mechanically compact garbage into regulation steel garbage containers to be collected
by front-end loading trucks. Refer to Appendix A for regulations.
RECYCLING COLLECTION
% Cart recycling or bulk lift recycling will be provided based on current operational practices and the number of
units/beds/rooms in the development. The Commissioner will determine the approved method. Refer to Appendix "B" for
requirements.
VI.Retirement Home Collection Requirements
GARBAGE COLLECTION
% Retirement Home developments must mechanically compact garbage into regulation steel garbage containers to be
collected by front-end loading trucks. Refer to Appendix A for regulations.
% Some Retirement Home developments are not required to compact garbage and must provide collection locations for
regulation steel garbage containers to be collected by front-end loading trucks, as per "Type B Bulk lift Garbage Collection
Requirements". Refer to Appendix A for regulations.
% Biomedical waste must be stored and collected separately by a licensed biomedical waste hauler.
% Liquid waste is not accepted for collection.
% Grease must be stored and collected separately by a licensed handler.
% Refer to The applicable By-laws for additional restrictions.
RECYCLING COLLECTION
Cart recycling or bulk lift recycling will be provided based on current operational practices and the number of units in the
development. The Commissioner will determine the approved method. Refer to Appendix "B" for requirements.
VII.Mixed Use Collection Requirements
Eligibility criteria may differ across the City. Please refer to a representative listed on page 2 of these guidelines for
assistance.
(A) Eligible Units Facing a Public Street
Eligible mixed use developments, with appropriate storage and facing a public street will be eligible for curbside door to
door collection of both garbage and recycling.
(B) Eligible Units Facing a Public Laneway
Where a unit can be serviced by a public road, curbside door to door collection for both garbage and recyclables will be
provided on the public road. Where a unit can only be serviced by a public laneway, the following conditions will apply:
% The collection vehicle must be able to enter and exit in a forward motion
% The eligible property to be serviced must have an address on the public laneway
% The laneway width must be a minimum of 3.5 metres in an existing laneway and a minimum of 6 metres in a new
laneway
% Turning radii onto the laneway must be a minimum of 9 metres inside and 16 metres outside
% Overhead clearance throughout the laneway must be a minimum of 4.4 metres
Where the above criteria is met, eligible units will receive curbside door to door collection of both garbage and recyclable
materials. Where the above criteria has not been met, units will be eligible for single point collection at an approved
collection point.
(C) Eligible Units Facing a Private Laneway, Roadway or Driveway, Parking Lot
SINGLE POINT GARBAGE COLLECTION
% Garbage must be placed out at curbside in a pile on collection days in standard green garbage bags capable of holding
20 kgs when lifted. Refer to the applicable By-laws for specific details.
% Garbage must be stored in enclosed, rodent proof containers, on private property between collection days. The location
of the storage area(s) will be to the satisfaction of the Commissioner of Works and Environment.
% The storage area(s) must be kept clean and free of debris at all times and satisfy the storage requirements.
SINGLE POINT RECYCLING COLLECTION
% Blue Boxes and Grey Boxes must be placed out at the designated collection point on collection days.
% Recyclables must be stored on private property between collection days.
BULK LIFT GARBAGE COLLECTION
% In some instances, bulk collection may be the collection system preferred by the Department. In these cases, garbage
will be uncompacted and a minimum of 4.5 cubic metres of capacity (on wheels) is required. Refer to Appendix A for
regulations.
bulk lift recycling collection
% Cart recycling or bulk lift recycling will be provided based on current operational practices and the number of units in
the development or redevelopment. The Commissioner will determine the approved method. Refer to Appendix "B" for
requirements.
(D) Locations that do not meet the eligibility criteria for collection:
Ø Garbage and Materials are not to be placed on public property. Proper loading and storage facilities located on private
property are required.
VIII.Small Commercial Collection Requirements
Eligibility criteria may differ across the City. Please contact a representative listed on page 2 of these guidelines for further
information.
(A) Small Commercial Developments Facing a Public Street
% Eligible commercial developments, with appropriate storage and facing a public street will be eligible for curbside
door to door collection of both garbage and recycling.
% Garbage and Recyclable Materials must be stored on private property between collections.
% Recyclables materials shall be set out as follows:
- bottles and cans placed in a blue box or carts (depending on approved system)
- paper placed in large clear plastic bags
- cardboard bundled as per the applicable By-laws
(B) Small commerical Developments Facing a Public Laneway
Ø Where a unit can be serviced by a public road, curbside door to door collection of garbage and recyclable materials
will be provided at curbside next to the public road. Where a unit can only be serviced by a public laneway, the following
conditions will apply:
% The collection vehicle must be able to enter and exit in a forward motion
% The eligible property to be serviced must have an address on the public laneway
% The laneway width must be a minimum of 3.5 metres in an existing laneway and a minimum of 6 metres in a new
laneway
% Turning radii onto the laneway must be a minimum of 9 metres inside and 16 metres outside
% Overhead clearance throughout the laneway must be a minimum of 4.4 metres
Where the above criteria is met, eligible small commercial developments will receive curbside door to door collection of
both garbage and recyclable materials. Where the above criteria has not been met, units will be eligible for single point
collection at an approved collection point.
(C) Units Facing a Private Laneway, Roadway, Driveway, or parking lot/Courtyard
SINGLE POINT GARBAGE COLLECTION
% Garbage must be placed out at the designated collection point in a pile on collection days in standard size garbage bags
capable of supporting 20 kgs when lifted.
% Garbage must be stored in enclosed, rodent proof containers on private property between collection days. The location
of the storage area(s) will be to the satisfaction of the Commissioner.
% The storage area(s) must be kept clean and free of debris at all times and satisfy the storage requirements.
SINGLE POINT RECYCLING COLLECTION/CART COLLECTION
% Recyclables must be stored on private property between collections. The location of the storage area(s) will be to the
satisfaction of the Commissioner.
% The storage area(s) must be kept clean and free of debris at all times and satisfy the storage requirements.
% Recyclables shall be set out at the approved collection point as follows:
- bottles and cans placed in a blue box or carts (depending on approved system)
- paper placed in clear plastic bags
- cardboard bundled as per the applicable By-laws
BULK LIFT GARBAGE COLLECTION
Ø In some instance, bulk collection may be the collection system preferred by the Department. In these cases, garbage
will be uncompacted and a maximum of 4.5 cubic metres of capacity and on wheels is required. Refer to Appendix A for
regulations.
J. Large Commercial
The City does not provide garbage or recycling collection services to large commercial developments or redevelopments.
Garbage and Materials are not to be placed on public property. Proper loading/storage facilities located on private property
are required.
K. Industrial
The City does not provide garbage or recycling collection services to industrial developments or redevelopments. Garbage
and Materials are not to be placed on public property. Proper loading/storage facilities located on private property are
required.
L. Other Developments
Will be reviewed on a case by case basis.
Appendix A
Bulk Lift Collection Requirements
The following are the requirements that apply to bulk collection service. Note: Type "A" Bulk Lift Collection
Requirements generally apply to locations with a chute system. Type "B" Bulk Lift Collection Requirements generally
apply to locations that service locations such as Townhouses where the bulk lift bins may be placed at convenient locations
throughout the development.
(I) Type "A" Bulk Lift Collection Requirements (Compacted)
Garbage Room
% A garbage room built according to all applicable building codes and large enough to store all garbage containers
between collection days must be provided in each building. The room must be large enough to permit movement of the
containers and to allow for washing of the entire area and containers. In addition, a minimum of 10 square metres must be
provided for uncompacted garbage such as bulky items. Provide a double door 2.2 metres wide or an overhead door leading
to the loading facility from each storage room. Each container requires approximately 5 square metres of floor area.
% All garbage containers must be stored inside until 7:00 a.m. on collection days and must be returned to the garbage
room immediately following collection.
Compaction Unit
Ø A stationary compaction unit must be installed in each building.
Ø Pressure should be set at 5500 kPa (800lbs/square inch).
Ø If garbage compactor containers are to be rented from the City of Toronto, the compaction unit must be compatible
with City containers. The charger door opening on City containers is 91.44 cm (36 inches) horizontally by 72.39 cm (28.5
inches) vertically. The bottom of the opening is 31.75 cm (12.5 inches) off the ground. Privately owned containers must
not have a capacity of more than 3.06 cubic metres (4 cubic yards).
Bin Requirements
% A minimum of one bin for every 40 units (based on a 2.29 cubic metre bin) is required. This is an estimate only.
Requirements may increase due to waste generation rates.
Loading Area
% The loading area must be level (+/- 2%), constructed of 8 inch reinforced concrete and 6 metres wide with an
unencumbered vertical clearance of 7.4 metres.
% In an enclosed situation, access to the loading area shall be a minimum height of 4.4 metres. The loading area shall be 6
metres wide within an unencumbered vertical clearance of 7.4 metres for the entire loading area.
% The enclosed area shall be adequately ventilated. Fresh air intakes shall not be located in or near any loading area.
% Bins will be placed in single file on one side of the loading area and the length of the loading area shall be adequate to
accommodate the required number of bins.
% The loading area shall include the length of the truck plus the length of the loading area determined by the number of
bins.
% The loading area must be no higher than 0.6 metres above driveway levels.
% Provide a level (+- 2%) concrete pad bordering the front of the loading area where all containers can be placed and
manoeuvred for safe and efficient collection.
% A mechanism to prevent the containers from rolling off the pad may be required at the discretion of the Commissioner.
% Loading areas must be kept clean by owners at all times (including snow and ice). Garbage not in regulation containers
must not be stored in the loading area.
% The City does not require the driver to leave the collection vehicle. The collection staging area should not require the
jockeying of bins by custodial staff.
Access
% The access route and loading platform must be designed in such a way as to allow a collection vehicle to enter the site,
collect the garbage and exit without the need to backup onto a public road unless otherwise approved by the
Commissioner. A turnaround area allowing for a three point turn of not more than one truck length or a drive through
access route are acceptable options for accommodating this requirement. The approximate dimensions of the collection
vehicle which must be accommodated are presented in the table below.
% Provide adequate ingress/egress routes to the loading area of a minimum 4.5 metres wide and with a vertical clearance
of 4.4 metres. Turning radii of 10 metres inside and 12.5 metres outside should be available through out.
| Typical Front End Garbage Collection Vehicle Dimensions* |
| Wheelbase |
5.49 m |
| Overall Length |
12 m |
| Width |
3.1 m |
| Height |
4.1 m |
| Inside Turning Radius |
10 m |
| Outside Turning Radius |
12.5 m |
* These are approximate dimensions. Actuals may vary.
% The site plan must include a diagram illustrating the anticipated movement of the collection vehicle through the building
site indicating turning radii.
% Access driveways must be a minimum of 6 metres wide at the point of ingress/egress to the site and a minimum of 4.5
metres throughout the site. Consideration should be made regarding width requirements for right or left hand turns that
may be required on private property.
% If the collection vehicle is required to drive onto or over a supported structure (such as an underground parking garage)
the City must be provided with a letter certified by a professional engineer that the structure can safely support a fully
loaded collection vehicle (35,000 kilograms) and conforms to the following:
(a) Design Code - Ontario Building Code
(b) Design Load - City bulk lift vehicle in addition Building Code requirements
(c) Impact Factor-5% for maximum vehicular speeds to 15 km/h and 30% for higher speeds
% It is the responsibility of the developer and subsequent property owner to ensure that the access route is free of
obstructions and protrusions, including, but not limited to, sightline obstructions, overhanging structures and speed bumps
at all times. The City is not responsible for collecting garbage in the event that the access route is obstructed.
Service Charges for Bins (District 1 only)
% It is the policy of the City of Toronto to levy a service charge on all developments in District 1, payment of which is a
condition for receiving City bulk lift garbage and recycling collection. The levy is currently $ 34.50 per month including
taxes multiplied by the number of garbage containers on site. The levy includes the provision and maintenance of city
garbage and recycling containers. Should the owner choose to provide private garbage containers, the levy will still be
charged and the containers must meet City specifications and be maintained privately at the expense of the building owner.
Application for Service
% Each new development or redevelopment requesting bulk lift service must apply for this service with the City of
Toronto before collection commences. A copy of the application form must be completed as part of the site plan approval
process. A copy of this form can be found in Appendix "C".
C The site plan must include a diagram illustrating the anticipated movement of the collection vehicle throughout the
complex indicating turning radii and turning areas.
C If the collection vehicle is required to drive onto or over a supported structure (such as an underground parking garage)
the City must be provided with a letter certified by a qualified Engineer that the structure can safely support a fully loaded
collection vehicle weighing 35 tonnes.
(II) Type "B" Bulk Lift Collection System (Uncompacted)
% Regulation containers of 2.29 or 3.06 cubic metres must be used. Garbage does not have to be compacted.
% The bulk containers must be stored in an enclosed structure minimum 4 metres wide by 3 metres deep, equipped with a
concrete floor, doors at least 1.83 metres wide with a securable double swinging gate and walls high enough to conceal the
container(s). In addition, sufficient space must be provided for the storage of bulky items and white goods generated by
residents between scheduled collections.
% Enclosure doors must be opened on collection day and bins must be accessible to the vehicle. The driver is not
permitted to exit the vehicle to facilitate collection.
% The storage enclosure must be kept clean and free of debris at all times.
% One 2.29 or 3.06 cubic metre bulk bin per 25 units is required.
Access
% The access route and loading platform must be designed in such a way to allow a collection vehicle to enter the site,
collect the garbage and exit without the need to backup onto a public road, unless otherwise approved by the
Commissioner. A turnaround area allowing for a three point turn of not more than one truck length or a drive through
access route are acceptable options for accommodating this requirement. The approximate dimensions of the collection
vehicle which must be accommodated are presented in the table below.
% Provide adequate ingress/egress routes to the loading area of a minimum 4.5 metres wide and with a vertical clearance
of 4.4 metres. Turning radii of 10 metres and inside and 12.5 metres outside should be available through out.
| Typical Front End Garbage and Recycling Collection Vehicle Dimensions * |
| Wheelbase |
5.49 metres |
| Overall Length |
12 metres |
| Width |
3.1 metres |
| Height |
4.1 metres |
| Inside Turning Radius |
10 metres |
| Outside Turning Radius |
12.5 metres |
* These are approximate dimensions. Actuals may vary.
% The site plan must include a diagram illustrating the anticipated movement of the collection vehicle through the building
site indicating turning radii.
% Access driveways must be a minimum of 6 metres wide at the point of ingress or egress to the site and a minimum of
4.5 metres throughout the site. Consideration should be made regarding width requirements for right or left hand turns that
may be required on private property.
% If the collection vehicle is required to drive onto or over a supported structure (such as an underground parking garage)
the City must be provided with a letter certified by a professional engineer that the structure can safely support a fully
loaded collection vehicle (35,000 kilograms) and conforms to the following:
(a) Design Code - Ontario Building Code
(b) Design Load - City bulk lift vehicle in addition Building Code requirements
(c) Impact Factor-5% for maximum vehicular speeds to 15 km/h and 30% for higher speeds
% It is the responsibility of the Developer and subsequent property owner to ensure that the access route is free of
obstructions and protrusions including, but not limited to sightline obstructions, overhanging structures and speed bumps at
all times. The City is not responsible for collecting garbage in the event that the access route is obstructed.
Service Charges for Bins (District 1 only)
% It is the policy of the City of Toronto to levy a service charge on all developments in District 1, payment of which is a
condition for receiving City bulk lift garbage and recycling collection. The levy is currently $ 34.50 per month including
taxes multiplied by the number of garbage containers on site. The levy includes the provision and maintenance of city
garbage and recycling containers. Should the owner choose to provide private garbage containers, the levy will still be
charged and the containers must meet City specifications and be maintained privately at the expense of the building owner.
Application for Service
% Each new development or redevelopment requesting bulk lift service must apply for this service with the City of
Toronto before collection commences. A copy of the application form must be completed prior to the commencement of
collection services. A copy of this form can be found in Appendix "C". Each site will be inspected prior to approval to
ensure that the development has complied with all requirements for garbage and recycling collection.
Appendix "b"
Multiple household Residential Recycling - Specific Requirements
The City of Toronto offers two systems for collecting recyclable materials, in addition to curbside door to door: bulk lift
collection and cart collection. The type of collection approved is dependent on current operational practices and will be
determined by the Commissioner.
Recycling Program Requirements
It is the responsibility of the developer and/or property manager to ensure that the recycling program is AS CONVENIENT
to each resident in the development as the garbage collection program.
The following are examples of appropriate recycling programs:
| Approved Garbage Collection Program |
Approved Recycling Collection Program |
| Residents are required to take garbage to a chute room. |
Residents are required to take recyclables to the same chute
room.1 |
| Residents are required to take garbage to a central location. |
Residents are required to take recyclables to the same central
location. |
Note that all applicable building and fire codes must be adhered to with regards to the residential drop off point.
It is the responsibility of the developer/property manager to transport uncontaminated recyclable materials and place in the
appropriate bins in a central location for collection.
Collection Requirements
The following are summarizes the current collection systems for recyclable materials. Collection type will depend on the
location and attributes of the development or redevelopment. Please contact the representative listed in these guidelines for
specific details.
(I) Bulk Lift Recycling
Bulk lift recycling consists of modifying two 3 cubic yard bulk bins to accept recyclables and is typically established at
buildings receiving bulk lift garbage collection and/or buildings with greater than 100 suites, unless otherwise determined
by the Commissioner.
. For more information on alternative methods of collecting recyclable materials within a building, such as specialized chute systems, contact the City of
Toronto representative noted in this document.
Recycling Containers
% A minimum of two recycling bins, compatible to City collection vehicles are required.
% If purchased from a private contractor the bin must be modified in the following manner:
C Two lengths of chain must be installed on the bulk container to allow for locking the top down.
Storage
% Recycling bins must be stored inside and the following conditions apply:
C A recycling room, separated from the garbage room, must be established. The room must conform to the same building
codes as apply to a garbage room except that recycling must not be compacted.
C The recycling room must be large enough to contain all recycling bins to be used (10 m2 for the first bin and 5m2 for each
thereafter). Consideration should be given to the possibility of future program expansion. The room must be large enough
to permit easy movement of the bins.
C The recycling room must be kept clean and free of debris at all times.
C The recycling room must be designed in such a way that recycling bins can be placed out for collection on the loading
dock. Doors must be a minimum of 1.83 metres wide to allow movement of the bins from the recycling room to the
loading facility.
Loading Facilities
% Loading facilities are subject to the same conditions as for garbage collection.
Access
% Access requirements are subject to the same conditions as for garbage collection.
(II) Cart Recycling
Cart recycling is typically established at buildings with less than 100 units and/or townhouse complexes, unless otherwise
approved by the Commissioner. The cart system uses 90 or 95 gallon containers compatible with City vehicles for the
collection of recyclable materials.
Recycling Containers
% A minimum of two recycling carts are required: one for each recycling stream. Recycling carts must be compatible with
City collection equipment. Two carts per 20 units are typically required.
Storage
% The recycling carts must be stored inside.
% A recycling room, separated from the garbage room, must be established. The room must conform to the same building
codes as apply to a garbage room except that recycling must not be compacted.
% The recycling room must be large enough to contain all recycling carts to be used and allow for easy movement of the
carts. Consideration should be given to the possibility of future program expansion. Carts are approximately 1.2 m high by
0.86 m deep and 0.67 m wide.
% The recycling room must be kept clean and free of debris at all times.
Access
Access is the same as shown in bulk lift garbage collection with the following exception:
Ø Where carts will be side loaded, provide adequate ingress/egress routes to the loading area of a minimum of 6 metres
wide and with a vertical clearance of 4.4 metres. Turning radii of 10 metres inside and 12.5 metres outside should be
available through out.
Loading Facilities
% Loading facilities will be the same a bulk lift garbage collection, however, the loading facility must be at ground level
with no obstructions.
Application for Service
% Each new development or redevelopment requesting recycling service must apply for this service with the City of
Toronto before collection commences. A copy of the application form must be completed prior to the commencement of
collection services. A copy of this form can be found in Appendix "C". Each site will be inspected prior to approval to
ensure that the development has complied with all requirements for garbage and recycling collection.
Appendix "C"
draft Application form
APPENDIX "D"
Conversion Tables
