Householders to get free DIY waste for small projects

Norfolk residents will be able to dispose of small amounts of DIY waste at Norfolk's Recycling Centres free of charge from 31 December following changes made by Norfolk County Council.

The change applies to small-scale projects carried out by householders on their own home, allowing them to bring a maximum 100 litres (must fit into 2 x 50l bags) for free or one single item (maximum size of 200cm x 70cm x 75cm). Each household is allowed four free visits with DIY waste every four weeks. Anything beyond this will still be charged at normal rates.

Cllr Eric Vardy, Norfolk County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Waste, said: "This is very welcome news for Norfolk residents who have carried out small projects on their homes or gardens and can bring these materials to us for recycling or disposal.

"From 31 December, the Government has set out the limits to household DIY waste which can be taken free of charge, but our Pay As You Throw service will remain in place as a convenient way to get rid of larger amounts. It's important that people are encouraged to dispose of their waste responsibly.

"In 2022/23 the County Council's Recycling Centres handled more than 60,000 tonnes of waste and 72% of this was diverted from disposal. We hope this change to legislation will be a further boost to householders to recycle as much as they can.

The change in policy follows Government abolishing charges for the disposal of limited amounts and types of DIY waste at recycling centres across the UK.

Prior to 31 December, customers with DIY-type construction and demolition waste will continue to be directed to the 'Pay as you throw service' which is available at all centres.

Traders must continue to pay for DIY waste.

For more information visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/DIYwaste