Frequently asked questions

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Garden Waste Collections

How can I apply for the new non-chargeable garden waste collection?

You can sign up to receive the new non-chargeable garden waste collection service now. You can opt-in online, by calling the council or by completing an opt-in form and sending it to the council.

If you already receive a collection of garden waste or you have already signed up you do not have to re-apply and you can continue using your service as normal.

Residents who do not currently have a garden waste bin will need to apply for the new service.

You can sign up now to receive your new green lidded bin in Summer 2012.

Will I get a new bin? When will I get my bin?

If you have signed up before the 1 December 2011 you will be given a green lidded bin which will be delivered from February 2012.

There is still time to sign up, and if you sign up and if you sign up now you will get your new bin delivered in Summer 2012.

Check your bin delivery and service start dates.

Those residents who already have a bag collection for waste will receive two new reusable bags for the garden waste service when you sign up. Bags will not be available for any other residents.

What do I need to do if I already receive a collection of garden waste?

If you currently receive a collection of garden waste, whether it is charged or non-charged you will not have to sign up and you can carry on using your bin as normal.

Can I sign up for the current chargeable garden waste collection service?

From 31 August 2011, it is no longer possible to subscribe to the chargeable Garden Waste Collection service. You need to opt in to the new non-chargeable service which will start in March 2012.

How do I know when my garden waste collection starts?

Garden waste bins will start to be delivered from February 2012.

You will be sent a collection calendar before your garden waste collections start. You can also check your collection calendar online.

If you sign up before spring 2012 you will receive your new bin in summer 2012.

What can I compost in my garden waste bin?

Yes	No
bark	fruit/vegetable peelings
cut flowers	food waste
grass cuttings	cardboard
weeds	paper
leaves	pet litter
hedge clippings	soil
house plants	rubble
twigs and small branches	animal waste

Why will the garden waste collection be an "optional" service? Why will I have to apply?

Whilst almost everyone has some household waste and recycling such as plastic bottles, cardboard, paper, tins and glass, many people may not need a garden waste collection.

If residents who do not apply for the service have garden waste to be disposed of, they will be able to take this to any of Wiltshire’s eleven household recycling centres.

What happens to the garden waste when it is collected?

The garden waste collected in Wiltshire is composted in Calne over several weeks. The final compost is available to buy at Wiltshire’s household recycling centres.

Does the council still provide subsidised compost bins?

The council will continue to subsidise food waste digesters, giving residents with gardens the opportunity to deal with their food waste and garden waste at home.

Find out more information on the subsidised food waste digesters

Last updated: 9 May 2012