Munich Introduces Yellow Bins: A Comprehensive Guide for Residents

Henrik MüllerOctober 14, 20263 Mins read6

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Munich’s New Yellow Bins: What You Need to Know

Munich, previously unique among German major cities for its reliance on recycling islands, is now introducing a new yellow bin collection system. This change, approved by the city council in 2025 after a pilot project, will officially take effect in January 2027.

Distribution and Responsibilities

Starting October 2026, yellow bins are being distributed across the city. Two private companies will manage the collection:

Knettenbrech + Gurdulic: Responsible for East Munich (Altstadt-Lehel, Ludwigvorstadt-Isarvorstadt, Maxvorstadt, Schwabing-West, Au-Haidhausen, Milbertshofen-Am Hart, Schwabing-Freimann, Bogenhausen, Berg am Laim, Trudering-Riem, Ramersdorf-Perlach, Obergiesing, Fasangarten, and Untergiesing-Harlaching).
RMG Rohstoffmanagement GmbH: Responsible for West Munich (Sendling, Sendling-Westpark, Schwanthalerhöhe, Neuhausen-Nymphenburg, Moosach, Thalkirchen-Obersendling-Forstenried-Fürstenried-Solln, Hadern, Pasing-Obermenzing, Aubing-Lochhausen-Langwied, Allach-Untermenzing, Feldmoching-Hasenbergl, and Laim).

These companies operate under the Dual Systems, which organize and finance the collection and recycling of sales packaging, with costs already integrated into product prices.

Bin Sizes and Placement

The Munich waste management authority (AWM) has determined the properties that will receive bins and their sizes (120, 240, 770, and 1100 liters). Residents must test the assigned size for three months before requesting an adjustment.

Automatic Delivery: Every property will automatically receive a bin.
Opt-Out: If you don’t want a bin, you can contact the responsible waste management company after delivery to have it removed.
Shared Bins: Bins can be shared with neighbors if space is an issue.

Important: Recycling islands will be dismantled by the end of the year.

When to Start Using Your Yellow Bin

Although the new bins are being delivered in October, they should not be filled until the end of the year. The first collection is scheduled for early January 2027, with subsequent collections every two weeks. Collection schedules, specific to district, street, and house number, will be sent to households via mail and made available digitally.

On collection day, bins must be placed at the roadside in a public area by 6 AM. Bins that are inaccessible to the collection vehicle will not be emptied until the next scheduled collection.

A paid pick-up and return service is available from Knettenbrech + Gurdulic for those who cannot manage their bins themselves.

What Belongs in the Yellow Bin?

Only empty packaging that is not made of paper, cardboard, or glass should be placed in the yellow bin. Proper sorting is crucial for efficient recycling.

Weight Check: Overly heavy bins may indicate incorrect sorting.
Mis-sorted Bins: If employees find incorrectly sorted waste, the bin will be left with a sticker requesting re-sorting. Repeated errors may lead to the bin being removed.

The introduction of yellow bins aims to increase packaging recycling. Currently, Munich residents collect significantly less light packaging (approximately 6 kg per person annually) compared to the national average (around 32 kg), with much of it ending up in residual waste and being incinerated. The yellow bin system is expected to be a more convenient option for citizens, allowing them to dispose of packaging directly at home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When can I start using my yellow bin?
You can start filling your yellow bin at the end of 2026. The first collection will be in early January 2027.

What if I don’t want a yellow bin?
You can contact your responsible waste management company after delivery to have it removed.

Can I share a yellow bin with my neighbors?
Yes, if space is limited, you can share a bin with your neighbors.

What happens to the recycling islands?
The recycling islands will be dismantled by the end of 2026.

What should I do if my bin is not emptied?
Ensure your bin is placed at the roadside in a public area by 6 AM on collection day. If it’s still not emptied, contact your responsible waste management company.

What if I put the wrong items in the yellow bin?
If mis-sorted, your bin may not be emptied and will be marked with a sticker. Repeated mis-sorting can lead to the bin being removed.