Rubbish Collections Exemptions Policy | Colchester City Council

Rubbish Collections Exemptions Policy

The Exemptions Policy helps those who cannot meet the maximum rubbish limits.

IN THIS ARTICLE

We know that some households find the current capacity and frequency of rubbish collections challenging. This Exemptions Policy is designed to make sure that rubbish and recycling collections meet the needs of residents who are affected.


Please note that having a waste limit exemption does not mean you will not receive wheeled bins. Exemptions are also not available for recycling collections.

Who can apply for an exemption

We expect all residents to recycle all recyclable materials before applying for an exemption. Full information is available in our full Collections Exemption Policy.

You may qualify for an exemption if you already recycle everything you can, and meet the following conditions.

In black bag areas

You have a large quantity of non-recyclable rubbish which means you are unable to meet the fortnightly limit of three black bags per household (totalling no more than 180 litres).

For example, you need to dispose of large amounts of ‘offensive waste’ such as nappies, or you have a large family.

In wheelie bin areas


You have a large quantity of non-recyclable rubbish which means you are unable to fit it into the standard 180-litre wheelie bin per fortnight.

For example, you need to dispose of large amounts of ‘offensive waste’ such as nappies, or you have a large family.

 

What will happen if you are given an exemption

 

Residents who qualify for an exemption will be provided with suitable equipment.

In black bag areas

 

You will be given tickers to put on the additional black bags to show you have an exemption. The bags will be collected fortnightly alongside normal general waste, or on a weekly if they contain 'offensive waste' such as nappies.

In wheeled bin areas

 

You will be given a 240-litre wheeled bin, which will be collected fortnightly.

How to apply

 

Applications for an Exemption can be made online or by phoning our Customer Service Centre on 01206 282700.

Apply now

You will be visited by a Community Zone Warden who will make a decision based on the individual circumstances of your household.

What to do if you disagree with our decision

 

Applications for Exemptions are reviewed on an individual basis. Applicants are permitted to appeal once to a Recycling and Waste Manager. Appeals can be made online or by phoning our Customer Service Centre on 01206 282700.

A decision will be made within 14 days. If you are refused an exemption, you may not reapply for 6 months unless you have had a significant change in your household circumstances.

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