New Rules for Handling Municipal Solid Waste (MSW)
Starting from September the updated Rules for Handling Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), approved by Russian Government Decree No. 293 dated March 7, 2025, will come into force.
One of the key changes is the introduction of the possibility to conclude MSW removal contracts electronically. Moreover, if a property management company fails to provide a substantiated refusal to a proposed draft contract within the established timeframe, the contract will be deemed concluded by default.
The updated standard form of the contract now includes additional provisions regarding the measurement of waste volumes and the allocation of responsibilities between the parties.
The procedure for separate waste accumulation has also been clarified: it will now be determined at the regional level by the constituent entities of the Russian Federation. Owners of waste collection sites (container yards) are required to install informational signage, and ensure that the site is included in the official register of waste accumulation facilities.
Additionally, a direct ban has been introduced on placing certain types of waste in standard containers, including hazardous substances, construction debris, mercury-containing lighting equipment, plant waste such as branches, leaves, and grass clippings.
A unified color-coded system for waste containers has also been introduced, which will become mandatory as of 2030.
