Oostende waste management policy updates

The city of Oostende is implementing several updates to its waste management and cleanliness policies. To address illegal dumping and regulate commercial waste, Mayor John Crombez proposed an ordinance to increase maximum fines for waste-related offenses from 350 to 500 euros. Enforcement measures include increased controls at collection points, the use of surveillance cameras at dumping hotspots, and daily cleanliness rounds. For offenders aged 14 and older, the city may mandate community service or recycling training.

Additionally, following a Flemish government mandate, Oostende will begin weekly doorstep collection of organic waste (GFT+), including fruit, vegetable, garden waste, and cooked food remnants, starting October 1, 2026. To mitigate seagull nuisance caused by food scraps, the city is providing seagull-resistant bins with secure lids.

As part of a broader system update, all doorstep collections—including organic waste, PMD, paper, cardboard, and residual waste—will transition to daytime collection on a consistent weekly schedule. The city is also introducing new yellow residual waste bags; existing green bags will remain valid until March 31, 2027.