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1. Who is affected by this bylaw?

Building owners and property managers are responsible for setting up a system and informing their tenants. Food-service businesses that rent space in a building will be asked to participate. While tenant participation is not mandatory at this time, it is highly encouraged as the Town anticipates implementing a ban on food waste to landfill in 2022.

2. What do I have to do to comply with the bylaw?

Information for Building Owners, Property Managers and Food-Service Businesses can be found at BanffZeroWasteTrail.ca

3. When does the bylaw come into effect?

The bylaw will come into effect on July 1, 2021.

4. How will the bylaw be enforced?

Enforcement will be conducted on a ‘complaint-based, education-first’ approach. This means that businesses will be given a grace period to collaborate with Town of Banff education staff in reaching compliance, prior to being issued warnings or fines.

5. Why is the Town of Banff proposing these requirement changes?

The Town of Banff strives to be a model environmental community, where everything we do is guided by a goal to protect this special place.

The Town of Banff has a goal to divert 70% of waste by 2028, and ultimately send zero waste to landfill by 2050. It is estimated that 65% of Banff’s waste to landfill comes from the commercial sector and about 50% of that is food waste. Separating food waste can save Banff businesses money, as renting and servicing a food bin is 40% cheaper than garbage.

6. Will this increase my costs because I am adding an extra service?

Renting and servicing of a food bin in Banff is about 40% cheaper than a same-size garbage bin.  

7. I am a food-service business in a building with no food bin. How do I comply with the bylaw?

It is the responsibility of your building owner or property manager to set up a system for your building and provide bins.  

8. I am a small business that doesn’t generate much food waste. How do I comply with the bylaw?

Some workplaces like office buildings or trades may not generate enough food scraps for commercial collection service. The Town of Banff will allow these businesses to dispose of their food scraps in residential bins. Eating and Drinking Establishments, Hotels, Hostels, or any establishment selling groceries may not dispose of food scraps in residential bins.*