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Information about our bin charges
Find out why we've introduced bin charges, what we charge for, when we won't charge, how to pay, and further information.
Why we've introduced bin charges
We can no longer afford to provide waste containers free of charge due to rising costs and reductions in funding.
Introducing charges helps us recover a contribution towards the cost of supplying containers, encourages residents to take responsibility for them, and reduces unnecessary replacement.
Most households will not be affected by these changes, as they already have the bins they need. Charges only apply if you request a new, replacement or additional container.
What we charge for
Charges apply to new, additional, and replacement:
- general waste wheelie bins
- recycling wheelie bins
- glass recycling boxes
Boxes are now only available for glass recycling. If you need a new/ replacement container for any other recycling, you’ll need to get a wheelie bin.
Food waste caddies remain free. We already charge for Garden waste bins separately through our garden waste subscription service.
The containers we provide are for use as part of the council’s waste collection service only. You must use them in accordance with our service.
When we won't charge
You may qualify for free containers if you receive Free School Meals or Housing Benefit / Universal Credit (housing element).
Free containers are also provided where required by council policy, including:
- changes to services, such as service redesigns or bin size changes
- containers damaged by collection crews
- food waste bins and caddies, which are provided as part of the food waste service
In all other circumstances, charges apply.
You are responsible for looking after containers we provide to your property. We won't replace lost or stolen containers free of charge
How to pay for a bin
You can apply online using our the Get a wheelie bin or black box page. This page will:
- explain any charges and how to pay
- show the types and sizes of containers available
- outline your entitlement under the Waste Container Policy
Read our Waste Container Policy
You must make your payment by debit or credit card. Unfortunately, we cannot accept cash or part payments.
Payment must be made in full before the container can be ordered or delivered.
Buying from other providers
We can only collect bins and boxes that we have supplied.
This is because containers must meet specific standards and be compatible with the lifting equipment on our vehicles. Using non‑standard containers can pose a health and safety risk to crews and may cause damage to collection vehicles.
Further information
If you don't, or can't, pay for a bin or box
If you don't want to pay
If you choose not to pay for a container that you require, we may issue a formal notice. Failure to comply may lead to further enforcement action, including a Fixed Penalty Notice.
We have a legal duty under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to collect household waste. The law allows us to specify the type of container to be used and to require the occupier to pay for its supply.
We will not collect any waste not placed within the required containers.
Waste placed outside in loose bin bags may attract pests, and encourage others to dump rubbish nearby. This can negatively affect your neighbourhood and the local environment.
Failure to present waste in the correct container may result in enforcement action, including the issuing of a Fixed Penalty Notice.
If you don't want to pay for a bin, you can still dispose of your household waste at one of our Household Waste Recycling Site (tips).
If you need a bin but can't afford one right now
Unfortunately, we cannot provide a replacement or additional container until we receive payment in full.
In the meantime, you will need to dispose of your waste legally. Household waste can be taken to your nearest Household Waste Recycling Site (tips).
If you receive Free School Meals or Housing Benefit / Universal Credit (housing element) you may be entitled to free containers.
Lost, stolen, or damaged bins and boxes
Lost or stolen bins and boxes
First, we recommend you check that your container hasn’t been left at a neighbouring property or elsewhere on your street.
It’s a good idea to clearly label your bins with your house number to help prevent mix-ups.
We also recommend you try and make sure your bin is brought back in as soon as possible after your collection. Your neighbour may be able to help with this.
If you are unable to locate your bin, you'll need to pay for a replacement. We do not replace lost or stolen containers free of charge.
Damaged bins or boxes
If your bin is damaged during collection
If our collection crew damage your container, the incident will normally be recorded by the crew on their in‑cab system. In this situation, a replacement container will be arranged automatically, free of charge.
This does not include damage caused by overfilling, placing inappropriate items in the container, or normal wear and tear.
Repairing bins with minor damage (for example, missing a lid, or a wheel)
Unfortunately we're unable to repair waste containers or supply replacement parts.
This is because there are several different container types from multiple suppliers, so it's not possible to reliably identify or fit the correct parts.
In these cases, you will need to pay for a replacement.
What happens if you move
When leaving a property
When you move you should leave all waste and recycling containers behind. They are assigned to that address and form part of our waste collection service.
As garden waste is a paid subscription service, you can usually take your garden waste bin with you. You must check with us first and confirm your new address is still within our service area.
When moving to a new property
You should check the property you are moving to and make sure the required amount of containers are in place. If they are not, you should discuss this with your landlord or the seller of the property.
If the containers are missing, the replacement will need to be paid for. If you rent your home from a private or social landlord, you should speak to them to agree who will pay for the containers.
If you have more bins than you’re entitled to, we won't collect them as part of your collection service, and we may remove them over time.
You can still apply for replacements or additional containers, but we will only make collections up to your household entitlement. If you had additional containers at your previous property, you will need to apply again.
Getting additional or larger bins
Each household is entitled to a standard 140 litre general waste wheelie bin. You can only pay for additional or larger bin if you meet the eligibility criteria set out in our Waste Container Entitlement Policy. This may include households with specific needs, such as those producing additional waste due to medical conditions.
If you're finding it difficult to manage with one bin, we recommend checking what you're throwing away. Make sure that you're separating out all recyclable materials and food waste and placing them in their correct containers. Making full use of recycling and food waste services can significantly reduce the amount of general waste you produce.
If you regularly need more capacity for recycling or food waste, you may be able to request additional containers for these materials.
If you produce extra waste due to a medical condition
We understand that some households produce more waste due to medical conditions or specific needs, such as the use of incontinence products or home treatments. In these circumstances, you may be eligible for additional or larger bin.
We assess eligibility using our Waste Container Entitlement Policy. We may ask you to provide supporting information as part of your request. We consider all requests sensitively and in confidence.
Contact us to discuss your circumstances and request an assessment.
This applies to non-infectious healthcare waste only. Infectious or clinical waste (such as sharps or dressings from medical treatment) must be collected by our specialist contractor, Medisort.