Bins and Waste FAQ

Bins and Waste

My bin wasn’t collected

If your bin is not collected on your usual collection day this could be because the bin is too heavy, contaminated with waste that does not belong in that bin, placed out late or if it is over filled. If you think your bin was missed not due to any of these reasons, then please report a missed bin.

What time do I put my bin out

Bins must be presented by 6.30am on the day of collection. Collection times can vary considerably due to road works and traffic issues among other reasons. We will not return to collect bins that were not placed out on time, so service users are asked to ensure they are careful to comply with this requirement.

I need help putting out my bins for collection

If you struggle to present your wheelie bins for collection due to age, disability or illness, then you can apply for assisted collections.

Side Waste

We do not accept side waste for Refuse or Garden Waste Collections. We will take Recycling side waste provided it is presented in clear plastic bags.

What if I put the wrong item in my bin

If you put the wrong item in the wrong bin then the crew will not empty it and will leave a tag on your wheelie bin to notify you. Wrong items in the bin can contaminate a full lorry load and we may not be able to dispose of it. If your bin has been contaminated, we would ask you to remove the problem items and to present your bin on the next scheduled collection date. Please note that we will not return to collect contaminated bins, intentional or otherwise.

My bin lid won’t close

If your bin lid will not close the crew may refuse to collect it, as emptying a bin without the lid closed can damage the bin, damage the loading equipment, and be a risk to both staff and passers-by.

My bin is too heavy

If your bin is too heavy, the lifting equipment won’t be able to empty it. There are safety regulations on the maximum weight we can take, and the bins can be damaged if we try. For these reasons we would have to ask you to remove some of the weight, and to re-present on your next scheduled date.

Additional/Replacement bins

If your bin is damaged or stolen you can report a bin issue, where an officer will visit and, if required, will arrange for a replacement.

You can request additional bins by report a bin issue.

Street Cleansing Routines

Streets are litter picked every 2 weeks, and are fully cleansed every 4 weeks.

Where does my waste go

Once your waste has been collected, recycling is taken to a recycling plant and various materials are separated out for recycling in different processes. Refuse is taken to the Energy from Waste plant and is burned which converts heat into energy. Green waste is composted commercially, usually for use in agriculture and horticulture.

Lincoln's Household Recycling and Waste Centre (HWRC)

Lincoln recycling centre – Lincolnshire County Council

Lincoln’s Tip is located on Great Northern Terrace, Lincoln, LN5 8LG.

Opening Times are Friday – Tuesday 8am to 4pm, closed Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Environment Agency Public Register

Please click on the link below to view City of Lincoln Council's registration as a waste carrier.

View other licensed waste carriers

Domestic Refuse, Recycling and Composting Collection Policy

View our Domestic Waste Policy