Recycling & Waste FAQs
My bin has not been emptied, what should I do?
Check to make sure that the bin was due to be collected using our Bin collection day lookup.
If the bin has been missed, no tag has been left on it explaining why it was not collected and the bin was out before 7am, please visit our missed bin page for further details of why we may have missed collecting your bin and ways of reporting it to us.
I have been told that my bin is contaminated. What can I do now?
Remove the contamination and re-present the bin for collection on your next collection day in two weeks’ time. If you cannot wait until then you can take the contents to one of the Household Waste and Recycling Sites in the meantime.
What if my bin is lost damaged or stolen?
Depending on what part of the bin is damaged we can either repair or replace a damaged bin and we will replace your bin if it is lost or stolen.
When is my collection day?
You can find out when your bin is due to be collected using our Bin collection day lookup
What can I put in my black bin?
Food waste and non-recyclable packaging should be placed in the black bin for collection. Hazardous waste must be disposed of responsibly at one of the Household Waste and Recycling Sites.
What can I put in my green bin?
Everyday items that can go into the green bin include:
- Food tins and drink cans
- Mixed glass, bottles and jars
- Plastic bottles and containers
- Paper
- Cartons
- Cardboard
If you have a green recycling bin, please ensure the recycling is clean, dry and placed loosely in the bin and ensure you do not squash the metals or plastics.
For a full list of what can and what can’t be recycled in your bin please see the A to Z of recycling. Find more local recycling facilities on the Recycle Now website.
Can I have another green bin?
We encourage our residents to recycle as much as possible so can supply you with an additional green recycling bin.
Please request an extra bin online using our Waste & Recycling Request it page.
Can I have another black bin?
No, each household is entitled to one standard size black waste bin only so Worcester City Council do not offer additional black bins. However, if you are a family of 6 or more, have a medical infirmity or have a baby in nappies then you may qualify for a larger bin. Please make your request using our Waste and Recycling Request it page.
Can I leave black sacks at the side of my bin for collection?
No. Excess waste must be disposed of at one of the Household Waste and Recycling Sites.
What can I do to prevent maggots in my bin?
Keeping your bin clean with the lid closed should prevent maggots. Food waste should be wrapped prior to disposal. Putting newspaper at the bottom of your bin will soak up any excess liquid in the bin.
Can I have a roll of black sacks?
If your property has wheelie bins we will not deliver a roll of black sacks. However, if you receive a sack collection you are entitled to one roll of black sacks a year and as many rolls of recycling sacks as you need. Should you require replenishment of sacks please visit our Customer Service Centre: The Guildhall, High Street, Worcester, WR1 2EY
I have trouble moving my wheelie bins, can the Council help?
If you are unable to move your wheelie bins to the front edge of your property ready for collection due to age or disability and there is no-one else in your household who can assist you, then we offer an assisted collection where we will collect your bin from an agreed collection point.
Apply for an assisted collection
Does the Council collect garden waste?
Yes, for a small charge. Garden waste is collected fortnightly from a brown wheelie bin. Please visit the Garden Waste pages for more information.
Will the Council clean my bin?
It is your responsibility to clean your bin. The Council does not offer a cleaning service or recommend any companies that carry out a service like this.