ABSTRACT Waste rock segregation and heterogeneity can increase the hydrogeotechnical and geochemical instability of waste rock piles, but characterising segregation quantitatively in the field is difficult because of the large dimensions of these structures. In this study, a discrete element model (PFC3D) was calibrated on two real cases and used to simulate the flow behaviour of waste rock during disposal. The effect of the construction method, the bench height, and additional factors (e.g. mine truck payloads and push velocities) on particle segregation was investigated. Segregation degree and relative particle diameters of waste rock at different locations in the pile were compared to propose practical solutions and reduce segregation and heterogeneity during deposition. Results indicated that simulated bench heights and mine truck payloads had limited effect on segregation. A smaller proportion of large particles in the original waste rock can increase segregation. Lateral disposal and increasing the push velocity tend to reduce segregation.