My bin hasn't been emptied
Reasons why your bin might not have been emptied and how to report a missed bin collection.
Report that a bin hasn't been emptied - please check that none of the reasons below apply before you do so.
Please remember - do not place masks, lateral flow device tests, gloves or aprons in your recycling bin. If anyone in your household has symptoms or has tested positive for Covid-19, your items should be double bagged and placed in your rubbish bin.
Reasons why your bin might not have been emptied
Our bin crews keep a record of any problems they encounter on their rounds. Bins are emptied between the hours of 7.00am to 5.00pm on your scheduled collection day. Your bin might not be emptied if you:
- put the wrong bin out
- put the bin out on the wrong day
- did not put your bin out by 7.00am on your scheduled collection day
- put the wrong things in your bin which might cause contamination, or overfill it or put items in it which make it too heavy to be lifted by the crew
- tie your bin to a fence or tie your lid shut, preventing it from being emptied
Find out bin collection dates
Please enter your house number and postcode in the My Durham section of our website. You can download a collection calendar which tells you when your bins will be emptied.
Bad weather, major incidents or industrial action
In periods of bad weather, or other situations outside our control, you can find up to date information about council services such as bin collections on our Disruptions, closures and warnings page.
What if I forget to put my box or bin out for collection?
You will need to wait until your next fortnightly collection date.
- Customer Services
- help@durham.gov.uk
- 03000 26 0000