Condo Waste in Quebec: Rules and Fines

Waste management in a divided co-ownership often creates tension among co-owners, tenants and the board of directors (board). A clear framework—grounded in the declaration of co-ownership and the by-laws of the immovable—protects the immovable’s purpose and the cleanliness of the common portions. Updated on 2026-07-10, this practical guide will help you structure your rules, provide for reasonable fines and operate an effective sorting system without making condo life more burdensome.

You will find key legal references (the Civil Code of Quebec and related legislation), sample clauses to adapt, a graduated enforcement process and operational advice for garbage chutes, garbage rooms and containers. The objective is to reduce overflow, prevent nuisances and keep the premises safe while respecting everyone’s rights.

Keep in mind (a frequent search: Quebec condo waste rules): prevention and communication reduce most repeat violations well before fines become necessary.

1) Legal framework and the syndicate’s powers

In Quebec, the use of private portions and common portions must respect the immovable’s purpose and must not interfere with others (see section 1063 of the Civil Code of Quebec). The by-laws of the immovable set out the rules for use and maintenance, including the disposal of residual materials, compost and recycling (see section 1070 of the Civil Code of Quebec).

• Declaration of co-ownership and by-laws of the immovable: they govern sorting, disposal hours, the requirement to use the equipment (chute, bins, containers) and the conduct expected in the common portions.
• Enforcement: the syndicate, through its board of directors, may adopt and enforce reasonable rules that are compatible with the declaration of co-ownership and the immovable’s purpose. Sanctions must be provided for in the by-laws and applied fairly.
• Recovery and the environment: residual materials management policies reflect the intent of the Environment Quality Act (EQA). They aim to reduce waste at the source, recycle and properly handle hazardous materials.

To support your work:

• Civil Code of Quebec (C.c.Q.)—divided co-ownership: see sections 1063 (use), 1070 (by-laws) and 1072-1077 (administration and recourse) on LégisQuébec: https://www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/fr/document/cc/CCQ-1991
• Environment Quality Act (EQA): https://www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/fr/document/lc/Q-2
• Good co-ownership practices (RGCQ): https://rgcq.org/
• Building safety and compliance (RBQ): https://www.rbq.gouv.qc.ca/

Governance tip: make sure your waste rules align with municipal instructions (collection schedules, sorting) without copying them word for word. The by-laws of the immovable translate those instructions into the reality of your building.

2) Content of clear, enforceable waste by-laws

Effective by-laws are precise, measurable and easy to communicate. Here are clauses to consider and adapt to your co-ownership:

• Sorting and definitions: specify the categories (garbage, recycling, compost, bulky items, electronics and hazardous materials). Mention the obligation to follow posted instructions and clean up in the event of a spill.
• Equipment and locations: identify drop-off points (chute, garbage room, recycling/compost room and loading dock), prohibit leaving bags in corridors and exit areas, and require lids to be properly closed.
• Hours: if there are designated drop-off times to limit noise or odours, specify them. Avoid unrealistic restrictions that lead to illegal dumping.
• Bulky items: describe the process (dates, registration and any fees charged to the offender if the item is left in an unauthorized location). Prohibit blocking evacuation routes or fire-department access.
• Tenants and occupants: remind co-owner landlords that they remain responsible for breaches by their occupants. Require the by-laws to be provided with the lease and upon move-in.
• Pets and cleanliness: require immediate cleanup of messes (torn bags, litter and so on), with the option of charging for cleanup if provided for in the by-laws.
• Photos/video surveillance: if cameras exist in the common portions, state that images may be viewed to enforce the by-laws, in accordance with internal policies and applicable legislation.
• Fines: provide for a progressive schedule (warning, first fine and repeat offence), reasonable amounts, the notification method (written notice or consented email) and the possibility of charging the actual cleaning or transportation costs attributable to the violation.

Adoption and amendment procedure:

1. Prepare the draft with the board and, if necessary, with the support of a condominium manager. Compare it with the declaration of co-ownership and the immovable’s purpose.
2. Place the draft on the agenda for the annual general meeting and circulate the text in advance. Gather comments.
3. Vote according to the majorities provided for in the Civil Code of Quebec and the declaration of co-ownership. Clearly record the resolution in the minutes.
4. Communicate the new version (PDF guide, posting and email) and set its effective date.

Useful resources for ideas on sample documents and structuring your communications: the MultiRent Services section explains our approach to operations management and administrative management.

3) Fines, notices and collection: graduated enforcement

Fines are a deterrent, but they must remain proportionate and be expressly provided for in the by-laws of the immovable. Quebec case law recognizes reasonable monetary sanctions when the rule is clear, communicated and connected to the immovable’s purpose (see also the RGCQ resources at RGCQ).

Good enforcement practices:

• Incident and evidence: record the date, location, rule breached, photos (if possible) and witness. Remain factual.
• Initial warning: for a first minor violation, send written notice (reminder of the rule, corrective actions and deadline). Keep a record in the unit file.
• First fine: in the event of a repeat violation, issue notice of the fine, including its basis (by-laws and section), amount and payment terms.
• Repeat violations: provide for increasing amounts and, if necessary, reimbursement of actual costs (cleaning, moving the container and decontamination) when directly attributable.
• Challenge: provide a period for submitting a written challenge to the board. Respond by resolution and then archive it in the file.

Collection:

• If the fine is not paid, it may be claimed in the same way as other charges provided for in the by-laws, with interest if the by-laws so state. Recourse is available (formal demand and claim), in accordance with the syndicate’s powers (see section 1072 and following of the Civil Code of Quebec).
• When actual cleaning or handling costs are directly related to a documented fault, they may be charged to the co-owner concerned if provided for in the declaration of co-ownership/by-laws and if reasonable.

Fairness and transparency:

• Post the fine schedule and give specific examples (a garbage bag left on the floor, moving without reserving the room, paint placed in the black bin and so on).
• Avoid excessive amounts. The objective is to educate and restore order, not to impose disproportionate penalties.

4) Operations: garbage rooms, chutes and containers

A good rule will fail without a sound operating system. The board should approve the layout and maintenance of waste areas:

• Garbage rooms: adequate ventilation, lighting, washable surfaces, water access, clearly identified containers (garbage, recycling and compost) and cleaning tools on hand.
• Chutes: regular inspections and clear signs (what to do/not do), with set hours if there is nighttime noise. Train the caretaker to clear blockages safely and report damage.
• Containers and loading dock: safe access, clear turning areas and floor markings to prevent illegal dumping.
• Bulky items: a clear schedule; if you use an occasional service, post the dates and accepted items. Items abandoned outside the designated periods may result in a charge to the offender, if provided for.
• Hazardous materials and electronics: identify suitable external drop-off locations. Never leave solvents, batteries or paint in garbage rooms. The EQA promotes responsible management of materials that pose a risk; if in doubt, consult specialized resources or a qualified contractor (see the Regie du batiment du Quebec (RBQ)).

Monitoring and maintenance:

• Include the garbage room in the maintenance logbook/EUC (cleaning, disinfection, compactor repairs and chute lubrication). Document the work performed.
• Measure: frequency of overflow, complaints and recycling contamination. Adjust signage and training accordingly.

To learn more about our operations support, see our services – operations management.

5) Communication and awareness: the key to success

Most “waste violations” result from a lack of information. Maintain a consistent presence:

• Visual signage: place pictograms above each bin, provide simple instructions and use both languages if necessary. Refresh the signage after a recurring incident.
• Welcoming newcomers: provide a move-in guide, reserve moving periods and explain the rules for disposing of bulky items. Require a signed acknowledgement that the documents were received.
• Recurring information: seasonal reminders (after the holidays and in the spring), reminders in the notice of meeting for the annual general meeting and in the minutes that follow. Use the syndicate’s newsletter.
• Participation: designate a “recycling/compost champion” from the board or green committee. Measure and share progress.

Need ideas for structuring your communications and documents? Take a look at our blog and our services – administrative management.

FAQ – Waste in a Quebec Co-ownership

1) Can fines be imposed for bags left on the floor?

Yes, if the by-laws of the immovable clearly provide for it, the information has been communicated and the amount remains reasonable and proportionate to the objective (maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the common portions). The board must document the violation and follow a graduated notice procedure.

2) Is a co-owner responsible for breaches by their tenant?

In practice, yes. The co-owner landlord is responsible to the syndicate for breaches by their occupant. Provide for delivery of the by-laws and applicable penalties in the lease, and keep proof of transmission. The board should first address the co-owner, who can then deal with their tenant.

3) Can the actual cleaning costs be charged to the offender?

If they are directly attributable, documented (photos and invoice) and provided for in the declaration of co-ownership or by-laws, these costs may be claimed from the co-owner concerned. Avoid arbitrary flat amounts; reimbursement of actual costs is easier to defend in the event of a challenge.

This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a lawyer or notary regarding your situation.

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