If you’re new to Malta or renting a room for the first time, understanding how waste collection works is essential. Malta has a strict and mandatory waste separation system, and failing to follow it can result in fines. Failing to keep your apartment clean may also attract unwanted pests which can also result to extra fees.
This guide will help you understand what to separate, when to take waste out, and where to find official information.
♻️ Waste Separation is Mandatory
In Malta and Gozo, waste separation has been mandatory since April 2023, meaning every household must sort their waste correctly before disposal.
This system helps:
- Reduce landfill use
- Increase recycling
- Improve environmental sustainability
The 4 Main Types of Waste
You must separate your waste into the following categories:
🟤 Organic Waste (White Bag)
This includes:
- Food scraps (cooked or raw)
- Fruit & vegetable peels
- Coffee grounds, tea bags
- Meat, fish, dairy
- Soiled paper (e.g. napkins)
👉 Tip: Remove packaging before disposing of food waste.
♻️ Recyclable Waste (Grey/Green Bag)
This includes clean items only:
- Plastic bottles & containers
- Paper, cardboard, newspapers
- Metal cans
- Cartons (milk/juice)
Important: Containers must be rinsed and clean before recycling to avoid contamination.
⚫ Mixed Waste (Black Bag)
This is for non-recyclable items:
- Dirty packaging
- Sanitary waste
- Broken ceramics
- Dust, wipes, sponges
🍾 Glass (Separate Collection)
- Glass bottles and jars only
- Must be placed in a reusable container, not a bag
You can also dispose of glass at designated bring-in sites or civic amenity locations. ()
📅 Weekly Waste Collection Schedule
Malta follows a national collection schedule:
- Monday: Organic (white bag)
- Tuesday: Mixed waste (black bag)
- Wednesday: Organic
- Thursday: Recycling (grey/green bag)
- Friday: Organic
- Saturday: Mixed waste
Glass is collected twice a month (usually 1st & 3rd Friday of the month).
When to Take Out Your Waste
- Waste should be placed outside up to 4 hours before collection time
- Collection times vary by locality (morning or evening)
Leaving waste out too early or on the wrong day may result in fines.
Fines & Enforcement
Authorities actively monitor waste disposal.
- Households can be fined starting from €25, increasing for repeat offences
- Fines apply for:
- Not separating waste properly
- Using the wrong bag on the wrong day
What About Bulky or Special Waste?
Some items require special handling:
- Bulky waste (furniture, large items):
→ Book collection through your Local Council - Hazardous waste (paint, chemicals, batteries):
→ Dispose at Civic Amenity Sites - Old medicines:
→ Return to pharmacies - Electronics & special items:
→ Use WasteServ roadshow trucks or collection points
Where to Get Official Information
For the most accurate and up-to-date details, visit:
WasteServ Malta official website:
- wastecollection.mt
There you can:
- Check your local collection times
- Download the waste separation guide
- Find collection schedules and updates
Final Tips for Tenants
- Always use the correct bag on the correct day
- Rinse recyclables before disposal
- Don’t leave rubbish outside overnight
- Ask your landlord or housemates if unsure
- When in doubt, check the official website
Why This Matters
Proper waste separation isn’t just about following rules—it helps keep your home clean, avoids penalties, avoids pests in your home and contributes to a better environment for everyone living in Malta.
If you’re renting with us, following these guidelines is part of maintaining a clean and respectful shared living space.