Business waste diversion program: tools and resources
Our tools and resources are here to help businesses and organizations implement successful waste diversion programs.
If you have questions about food and yard waste or recycling programs for your business, we can help. Fill out the online request below or contact 311.
You can also subscribe to our waste diversion business newsletter to stay up to date with commercial waste program changes.
Looking for disposal options for business waste items? Find disposal options and instructions at Waste Disposal Options for Business.
Program requirements
As of November 1, 2017, businesses and organizations in Calgary must have waste diversion programs in place. This includes all waste created by your business: operations, customers, members, employees and/or volunteers.
- See our Food and Yard Waste Bylaw Requirements.
- See our Recycling Bylaw Requirements.
Are you a business, company or organization?
The bylaw applies to property management, offices, stores, malls, restaurants, hotels, schools, healthcare, manufacturers, factories, churches, non-profits, warehouses and other operations. The bylaw applies regardless of organization size or number of employees.
Looking for a collection company?
In Calgary, you can also choose your waste collection company.
Check out the waste hauler directory for garbage, recycling, food and yard waste or large item pick up.
The City of Calgary also offers commercial garbage, recycling, and food and yard waste collection services for Calgary businesses and organizations.
If you already have City of Calgary service or are interested in our services, see Calgary Commercial Waste Collection Services.
Program tips
Check outFinding the Right Hauler for You to help you find a collection company that meets your business's needs.
Check out ourRight Sizing Tip Sheet to ensure your bins are the right size and collected at the right frequency.
Find tips for setting up your commercial and recycling and food and yard waste programs at Best Practices for Business Waste Diversion.
Support services
Conduct a waste audit
A waste audit is a great first step to help you figure out the amount and types of waste being generated by your organization.
If you're a small business or organization, you can complete a waste audit yourself, and we have the tools to help you out.
To borrow a waste audit kit for your business or organization, fill out the request below or call 311
After you have completed your audit, enter the results into thiswaste assessment workbook to find out how much waste your organization produces from each waste stream and what you can do to help reduce it.
Request a presentation
Experienced City staff are available to talk to groups about the changes to business recycling and composting. To schedule a presentation, please fill out a service request below or call 311.
Business waste success stories
Many Calgary businesses and organizations are already recycling and composting their waste. We are capturing some of their stories to share ideas and inspiration. See Business Waste Success Stories.
A successful waste diversion program starts with an enthusiastic team. Check out theBuilding a Green Team guide to find out how to set up a green team for your business or organization.
Information Guides and Resources
Getting started is easier than you think. Check out our step-by-step information guides and waste audit information to help you set up a waste diversion program or improve your existing program.
Download and display posters around your business as useful reminders to reduce commercial waste.
Waste diversion for business owners, managers and building operators
| Business Food and Yard Waste Resources | |
|---|---|
 Download (English) |
 Food and Yard Waste Diversion Guide for Businesses and Organizations |
 Fats, Cooking Oils and Grease Poster |
 Food & Yard Waste Program Letter (English) |
| Business Recycling Resources | |
|---|---|
 Download (English) |
 Business and Organization Recycling Guide for Building Owners and Managers Find out how to comply with the recycling bylaw changes and implement a recycling program. |
 Download (English) |
 Download (English) |
 Download (English) |
 Recycling Program Letter (English) |