Households in England could face fines of up to £80 for breaking four bin collection rules. The penalties apply when waste is left in a way that obstructs neighbours, restricts access, attracts vermin or is unsightly.
New bin collection rules
Bin collections have undergone significant changes across England this year, with separate collections now in place for food waste, paper and card, glass, metal and plastic. The modifications were introduced to simplify waste separation.
Local authorities must provide clear guidance about what materials can and cannot be recycled, though some councils have temporary exemptions from implementing the system. Residents are advised to consult their local council's website for the most recent guidance.
When penalties can be issued
If households deposit incorrect items in the bins, the bins may not be emptied and residents could face fines. The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs states that households are not penalised for minor infringements of waste bin regulations, but they can be for those who inflict genuine damage to the local environment.
Councils can impose penalties when households fail to adhere to waste collection regulations and non-compliance causes an obstruction to neighbours, such as forcing people using wheelchairs or buggies to walk on the road. Penalties can also be issued for restricting access to the pavement or street, for example, leaving waste receptacles like bins or bags out for several days.
Other grounds for penalties include waste likely to attract vermin like foxes and rats, such as leaving bags or open receptacles out days before a collection, and unsightly waste, such as torn bags or overturned receptacles left out.
When fixed penalties cannot be issued
Councils cannot issue penalties for minor problems, such as putting something in the wrong receptacle by mistake, forgetting to close receptacle lids, or leaving receptacles out for a few hours before a collection.
Fixed penalties are issued as a written warning to explain why the rules have been broken. If a household does not comply, a notice of intent can be issued. A final notice can be sent 28 days after the notice of intent, and it will include the amount the household must pay. The maximum penalty is £80.
Waste management specialists have also called on households to reconsider what they place in their recycling bins under the new regulations, including receipts, wrapping paper, disposable coffee cups, crisp packets and toothpaste tubes.
