In September 2026, the Bureau of the Montreal Inspector General (BIG) announced the results of a large‑scale investigation that revealed extensive hiring of unlicensed subcontractors by waste‑collection firms across the city. The probe identified a pattern of employing workers without proper documentation and using false identities.
The investigation focused on the network of subcontractors that operate without the permits required under municipal regulations. BIG officials said the illegal hiring practices have been pervasive, allowing companies to bypass legal employment standards. The use of undocumented labor and fabricated identities makes it difficult for authorities to monitor working conditions and enforce safety rules.
City officials highlighted the danger such practices pose to garbage workers, who already face a high risk of injury on the job. By employing workers off the books, subcontractors often forgo mandatory training, protective equipment, and insurance coverage, increasing the likelihood of accidents. The Inspector General’s crackdown aims to eliminate these shortcuts and bring the waste‑collection sector into full compliance with licensing and labor laws.
BIG has indicated that further enforcement actions will follow, including inspections of subcontractors and potential penalties for companies found to be violating regulations. The bureau will coordinate with provincial labor inspectors to verify compliance and to ensure that any affected workers receive proper documentation. The agency’s effort is part of a broader municipal push to restore order to a waste‑collection system that has been plagued by illegal operations. The investigation’s findings underscore the need for stricter oversight to protect both workers and the public.