Waste offences | Colchester Borough Council

Winter support

Colchester Borough Council is providing support for residents, businesses and communities throughout winter.

Waste offences

TEST: Article

What happens if you put your rubbish out too early

IN THIS ARTICLE

  • The problems caused by putting your rubbish out too early
  • What we can do to stop this problem from happening
  • What is a registered waste carrier

Your recycling and rubbish should be out ready for collection by 7.00am on the morning of your collection day.

Putting your recycling and rubbish out earlier can cause problems with cats and other wildlife opening up bags and spreading rubbish around your street. It can also block pavements and cause problems for people with prams, electric vehicles and other needs.

If you put your recycling and rubbish out early we will be in touch to remind you of the rules. If we can't tell who is putting it out early, we will get in touch with everyone in the area. If it continues, we may need to open up the bags to work out who is causing the problem.

If all else fails, those responsible can be fined between £100 and £1000 depending on the situation.

Collection of waste by others

If another company or person is collecting rubbish from your property, they need to be registered as a waste carrier. Just check with the Environment Agency first as they have a list of companies who can do this.

If rubbish is found fly-tipped and it can be traced back to you, you may be prosecuted for failing to use a registered waste carrier.

Report Fly Tipping