Questions & Answers

Are separate bins required for each dwelling?

Generally, yes. Where a dual occupancy uses individual kerbside bins, each dwelling is allocated its own general waste and recycling bins.

The standard ACT allocation is:

  • 1 × 140 L general waste bin per dwelling, collected weekly; and
  • 1 × 240 L recycling bin per dwelling, collected fortnightly.

Shared-bin arrangements may also be used where an appropriate shared waste collection system applies to the development.

Reference: ACT Government – Development Control Code for Best Practice Waste Management 2019, Appendix 4, Table A4.1 – Domestic Waste and Recycling Services and Bins – https://www.cityservices.act.gov.au/recycling-and-waste/bins/new-bins

Last reviewed: 14 September 2026 Information current as at: 16 September 2026

Short Answer

Generally, yes. For individual bin collection, each dual-occupancy dwelling is allocated its own 140 L general waste bin and 240 L recycling bin. Shared-bin arrangements may apply where the development uses an approved shared waste service.

Detailed Explanation

For dual occupancy developments using individual mobile garbage bins (MGBs), the ACT Government's standard domestic waste service provides one 140 L general waste MGB and one 240 L recycling MGB per dwelling.

The Waste Management Code also recognises shared-use MGB arrangements, meaning separate bins are not an absolute requirement where an approved shared waste servicing arrangement applies.

Key Point

No minimum block size does not remove the need for planning assessment.

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