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Your Questions

Can I have a bonfire in my garden to dispose of garden waste?

Yes, you can have a bonfire in your garden, provided it is controlled and does not become a nuisance to neighbours. However, the statutory nuisance provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 allow the Council to serve a notice on a person causing a nuisance to neighbours from bonfires. Bonfires can be very irritating to neighbours and the smoke, smuts and smell can prevent them from enjoying their gardens, opening windows or hanging out washing. It is recommended that you inform your neighbours before any burning activities are carried out. Alternative methods of disposal which are less environmentally damaging (like composting or shredding) are preferable.

Can I take my own legal action against someone who is causing a disturbance through noise or smoke?

As an individual it is possible to take legal action against a neighbour where they are causing you a statutory nuisance from things like noise and smoke.  The provisions of Part IV of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 allow you to do this.  It is recommended that you seek legal advice before embarking on this process.

How can I dispose of domestic clinical waste such as surgical waste, used syringes, drugs and pharmaceuticals?

Collection can be arranged by calling the contact cernter on Tel: 0845 277 7000 Text: 07717990001 or

How do I dispose of hazardous waste?

The Council cannot, under any circumstances, accept special or hazardous waste with Commercial or Domestic refuse collections. Any item deemed hazardous such as asbestos, car batteries etc must be dealt with within EC Directives .

Your Questions on Bins/Recycle Boxes

How can I find out what the collection days are for my kerbside recycling?

Using your postcode you can find out information on collection days and more on your bins

My bin has been chewed up by the collection lorry, what should I do?

A new bin can be arranged by calling the contact cernter on Tel: 0845 277 7000 Text: 07717990001 or

What happens if I put the wrong items in my recycling bins/box?

One contaminated bin can spoil an entire vehicle load so it is important that the correct items are put in the appropriate bin. If the people doing the uplift notice a wrong item in the bin, they will not take it.

What kind of glass can be recycled?

Many types of glass contain sulphur or are in other ways contaminated - and therefore can't be recycled at the usual recycling points. Greenhouses, window - panes, vehicle glass, Pyrex dishes, ornaments, vases and mirrors are unsuitable for the bins. Even drinking glasses can't be recycled with household glass.  It is best to just recycle household glass jars (rinsed out and without the lid) and glass bottles.

Why can't I recycle envelopes?

You can recycle envelopes.  Just put them in your recycling box

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