Residents will have to follow specific new rules around bin collections
New bin laws are being introduced.(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
Major new rules surrounding bin collections are to come into force in 2026 for millions of households.
And it will take some getting used to as residents have to separate their rubbish into more bins.
Some local authorities have already started announcing their plans and when they will be taking effect.
READ MORE: Rachel Reeves announces cash ISA ‘bonus’ for state pensioners
Get our best money saving tips and hacks by signing up to our newsletter
In many areas, it will mean residents having to manage four bins, bags or containers.
Residents will have to separate food waste into a new bin or caddy, while there will be specific new rules around recycling.
It means residents will have to spend more time separating their rubbish, and make sure they’ve got it right.
It may take some time to get used to the new rules.
Paper, newspapers, magazines, cardboard and cartons will have to be kept apart from glass, tins and plastics.
The shake-up is designed to boost recycling rates and better handle the removal of “smelly” food waste.
Breaking news straight to your WhatsApp
BirminghamLive readers get the very latest breaking news through our WhatsApp community.
All you have to do is click this link and select ‘Join Chat’ and you are in.
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like by selecting ‘exit group’.
The Government says: “For too long, households in England have been presented with a muddled and confusing patchwork of approaches to bin collections.
“The new default requirement for most households and workplaces will be four containers for:
- residual (non-recyclable) waste
- food waste (mixed with garden waste if appropriate)
- paper and card
- all other dry recyclable materials (plastic, metal and glass)
“These may be various container types, including bags, bins or stackable boxes.
“This is the Government’s maximum default requirement and is not expected to increase in the future.
“However, councils and other waste collectors will still have the flexibility to make the best choices to suit local need.
“This is a sensible, pragmatic approach to the collection of materials for every household and business in England.”