More flexible rules are being introduced for municipal composting.

The Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment wants to make it easier for smaller municipalities to compost waste without requiring a landfill permit.

Specific instructions for siting, constructing and closing the facility will be provided. This method will not require approval, but there will be ongoing inspections to ensure compliance.

Higher-risk facilities handling more than 15,000 tonnes of organic material annually—such as Saskatoon and Regina—will need an approved environment plan.

“We want to make it easier for municipalities to compost their waste,” said Environment Minister Travis Keisig in a government news release. “This change strikes a balance between environmental protections and practicality, benefitting both communities and the environment.”

Existing facilities are exempt from certain siting, design and construction requirements unless they undergo expansion.

Smaller facilities like community gardens or residential backyard composting are not regulated under these conditions.