Learn More About This Project - FAQ

    What is the project and why is it happening?

    In February 2020, there was some ground disturbance at the Sechelt Landfill that resulted in closing the public drop-off area, re-locating it to a smaller footprint as well as closing the Share Shed. It was discovered that the ground disturbance was the result of old “dump” practices of burying gypsum (drywall). This buried drywall essentially has gone “mushy” causing voids in the ground.

    Further ground disturbances have occurred in front of the exit gate and other areas of the site, causing an even further reduction to the public drop-off area. 

    This project is to remediate the ground and to construct a new public drop-off area. 

    Who is doing the work and how much does it cost?

    The work was awarded to Summit Earthworks Inc., in the amount up to $847,811

    How long is the project going to take?

    Mobilization to the site will occur on May 17, 2021 and completion is anticipated to be early August 2021.

    What hours will the work be happening?

    The work will occur on a schedule of 21 days on with 7 days off, 12 hours per day. The work may commence as early at 6:00am some days. This project has SCRD Board approval for a noise bylaw exemption to work those hours.

    Is it going to be loud?

    For approximately 3 weeks, starting May 24, 2021, yes, it will be loud at the site and the sound may carry and be heard in the East Porpoise Bay area of Sechelt. During that time, the ground throughout the area designated for remediation will be compacted, and that is very loud.  

    How will the project impact what I can take to the Sechelt Landfill?

    Starting May 15, 2021, tires will no longer be accepted until the project is complete. This is to help with the space requirements of the project and to keep the site as operational as possible. Tires are accepted (off rim - no charge; on rim – fee applies) at tire retailers and auto mechanic shops throughout the Sunshine Coast. Visit www.tsbc.ca to confirm locations. 

    Reminder – green waste is not accepted at the Sechelt Landfill and should be taken to Salish Soils. 

    There may be other temporary material acceptance interruptions during the project. If so, they will be included on the SCRD website and social media. 

    How else may the project impact my trips to the Sechelt Landfill?

    Wait Times - Wait times are currently 30 minutes or more during peak days and times (Tuesdays, weekends). These wait times will continue for the duration of the project, perhaps longer should the pandemic continue and site traffic limits continue to be reduced. Please limit your trips to the Sechelt Landfill to only those absolutely necessary. 

    Bin Locations – The bins for garbage, metal and drywall, as well as the locations for paint, fridges/freezers and propane tanks will change. The Scale Attendant and Site Attendants will help direct you. Thank you for your patience thus far and throughout the project!

    Is the Sechelt Landfill going to close as part of this project?

    There is the potential for delayed openings, early closures or shorter one-day closures as the work continues. The SCRD and the contractor are doing everything to avoid this, however should a closure be necessary the SCRD will provide as much notice as possible.

    Part of this project will include the relocation of the scale. The landfill site will be closed for three days in order to move the scale. The SCRD will communicate with the public in advance when these dates are confirmed.

    If the Sechelt Landfill has to close during this project (planned or unplanned), will my curbside garbage be collected?

    Yes. Curbside garbage collection service will not be interrupted due to this project. Coordination with the hauling companies will occur and arrangements will be made for disposal of their garbage. 

    As well, Pender Harbour Transfer Station is available for your waste disposal and you can find the hours of operation at www.scrd.ca/transfer-station