Key Takeaways -

• Most councils allow additional wheelie bins for households with special needs, like large families or medical conditions.
• The process and costs for obtaining extra bins vary by council, with some requiring proof or an assessment.
• Different councils offer various bin sizes and types, including options for garden and recycling waste.
• Proper waste management and following local guidelines help maintain cleanliness and support sustainability efforts.

Waste management is vital for keeping our communities clean. Wheelie bins play a big role in this, helping us dispose of and recycle our household waste properly. They come in different sizes and colours for various types of waste.

We will look at whether you can have more than one wheelie bin and the rules around it. We’ll explain who can get extra bins, what different councils require, and more. Keep reading to learn what you need to do if you need an additional wheelie bin.

Understanding these rules will help you manage your waste better and keep our environment clean.

Understanding Wheelie Bin Allocation

Most households are allocated one general waste wheelie bin. Some councils also provide bins for recycling and garden waste (1). The exact number and type can vary based on local regulations.

There are typically three types of wheelie bins: general waste bins for non-recyclable items, recycling bins for materials like paper and plastic, and garden waste bins for compostable items. Each type helps in proper waste segregation and recycling efforts.

The allocation of bins depends on the number of residents, property type, and specific waste needs. Councils assess these factors to ensure proper waste management.

Criteria for Additional Bin Request

Number of permanent residents

Households with a large number of permanent residents may qualify for additional wheelie bins. Typically, if six or more people are living in a home, you can request an extra bin to manage the increased waste.

Medical conditions

Excess waste generated due to medical conditions is another reason for requesting additional bins. If someone in the household has a medical condition that results in more waste, councils often allow for an extra bin, sometimes without additional charges.

Families with young children

Households with young children, particularly those in nappies, may also be eligible for additional wheelie bins. The extra waste produced by nappies can be significant, and councils recognise this need by providing extra bins to accommodate the increased waste.

Different Council Guidelines

Wirral Council

To request additional bins from the Wirral Council, you must meet specific conditions. These include having six or more permanent residents, a medical condition that generates excess waste, or children in nappies.

The cost for additional bins includes £45 for a general waste bin and £22 for a recycling bin. However, if the need is due to a medical condition, there is no charge. You may need to provide evidence, such as a letter from your doctor, to support your request.

Aberdeen City Council

Aberdeen City Council allows a second authorised general waste bin for households with five or more permanent residents or those with special circumstances that produce excess waste.

The charge for an additional bin is £36.10, but there is a 50% discount for residents receiving council tax or housing benefit.

There is no charge for bins needed due to medical conditions or disabilities. The council periodically sends a letter to confirm the continued need for the additional bin.

Swindon Borough Council

In Swindon, residents who find it difficult to manage with one wheelie bin must undergo an assessment by a waste warden. This assessment ensures that the household meets the criteria for additional bins based on size or specific needs.

For properties unsuitable for wheelie bins, such as those with limited space, residents can request blue refuse bags instead. This ensures everyone has a suitable waste disposal method.

Hampshire County Council

Hampshire County Council provides residents with a standard allocation that includes one 240L general waste bin, one 240L recycling bin, a 38L recycling box for glass, and a food waste caddy.

If you need to dispose of garden waste, you can purchase a brown wheelie bin for £31 and pay an annual collection fee. This setup helps residents manage various types of waste efficiently and ensures proper recycling.

Hertfordshire County Council

Households in Hertfordshire typically receive a 180L wheelie bin for residual waste, a 240L bin for green waste, food waste, and mixed dry recyclables, plus a blue recycling box for paper.

If you sign up for the garden waste collection service, you will pay an annual fee of £40 and receive a brown wheelie bin for your garden waste. This comprehensive service covers all basic waste management needs for residents.

Lancashire County Council

Lancashire County Council allocates a 240L wheelie bin as standard, but households have the option to upgrade to a larger 360L bin if they have a larger family. Additionally, residents can request up to three recycling boxes and may receive a food waste caddy.

If they sign up for the garden waste collection scheme, they will receive an additional 240L bin for compostable food and garden plant waste, ensuring all waste types are properly handled.

Surrey County Council

Surrey County Council offers a standard 240L bin for general waste, but smaller 140L bins are available upon request for homes with less waste. Large households with five or more people can request a 360L bin for their general waste needs.

Residents can also sign up for the garden waste collection service, which costs £49 per year and includes a 240L garden waste bin, making it easier to manage garden waste.

Worcestershire County Council

In Worcestershire, residents receive a 180L wheelie bin for general waste and a 240L recycling bin as standard. Households can request a smaller 140L bin if they prefer or a larger 240L bin if they have a family of six or more.

Additionally, if residents sign up for the garden waste collection service, they will receive a 240L brown wheelie bin for £62.50 per year, helping them manage garden waste effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Buy My Own Bin on Top of the Standard Allocation?

Yes, you can buy your own bin in addition to the standard allocation provided by your council. However, the bin must comply with specific council guidelines, including size and colour, to ensure it will be collected.

It's important to check with your local council for the exact requirements and approved vendors.

Can I Share a Wheelie Bin with My Neighbour?

Sharing a wheelie bin with a neighbour is generally not recommended. It can lead to issues with waste management, accountability, and collection schedules. Each household is usually responsible for its own bins to ensure proper waste segregation and disposal.

What Should I Do If My Wheelie Bin Is Stolen or Damaged?

If your wheelie bin is stolen or damaged, contact your local council to report the issue. Most councils will provide a replacement bin, although there may be a charge depending on the circumstances.

Ensure to follow the council's procedure for reporting and replacing the bin promptly.

Conclusion

Understanding the regulations and criteria for obtaining additional wheelie bins can help you manage your household waste more effectively. By following the guidelines provided by your local council, you can ensure proper waste disposal and recycling.

Whether you need extra bins due to a large household, medical conditions, or other specific needs, knowing the process and requirements is essential. Proper waste management not only keeps your environment clean but also supports community-wide sustainability efforts.

Sources -

1. https://www.wheeliebinstorage.co.uk/council-bin-sizes/