Frequently asked questions

I have just moved into my property, which is on a kerbside recycling scheme and don’t have a green recycling box. How do I get one?

Call or email customer services on the details below and ask for a green box to be delivered. It is only one kerbside box per household.

What time should I put my kerbside box and bag out for collection?

Your box (and bag*) should be put out for collection by 7am.

*Only available in certain areas.

Will glass be collected on a different day?

No, there are no changes to the round. Glass will be collected with all your other recyclables on the kerbside round.

What happens to kerbside collection during bank holidays?

We continue to collect kerbside boxes (as well as household refuse) on bank holidays. Please note that there is a break over Christmas and New Year for your recycling collections. This will be advertised in the local press.

Where can I recycle my other waste?

At your two local civic amenity sites at Wincombe Business Park, Shaftesbury and Blandford Heights Industrial Estate or local recycling centres.

How can I dispose of garden waste?

You can either purchase a home composter or take it to your local Civic Amenity site. Alternately the Council will collect garden refuse with your normal refuse on your collection day if it is presented in a prepaid sack or by attaching a prepaid label (please note your garden waste will not be recycled). For further details on both please contact Customer Services on (01258) 454111.

What happens if I put something in the kerbside bag or box that cannot be recycled?

Unfortunately we do not have the space for materials that we cannot recycle. If you do put something in your kerbside box that cannot be recycled it will be left with an explanatory note in your kerbside box.

I can’t fit all my recycling in the green box, what can I do?

You can use any other container or bag you wish for the storage of additional materials.  Please leave it next to the green recycling box for collection. If you don’t have a green recycling box let us know.

I know it’s important to shred personal documents to prevent identity fraud. Where can I recycle the shredded paper?

Shredded paper can go in any of the paper recycling banks in the district.

You keep telling me to wash out bottles cans and tins before I put them in the box. Why should I do this when we are trying to conserve water?

Cans and bottles which haven’t been cleaned will attract flies and vermin and after a couple of days will begin to smell and become infested by maggots. This makes collecting the items very unpleasant for the crew.  To minimise water usage simply rinse out any cans, tins and bottles using the water left after you have done the washing up.