Business waste

What is classed as business waste?

Anyone who gets paid for their services is a business, even if they're just a sole trader. Business waste can come from:

• shops, offices, factories, restaurants or other business premises
• mobile businesses such as beauticians, window cleaners or gardeners
• tradesmen such as builders, plumbers, tilers and kitchen fitters
• charities and non-profit organisations.

If you use part of your home to run your business then any waste from that part is business waste and must not disposed of in your household waste collection.

Do I need a business waste collection?

Yes, if you are the owner of a business of any size, you are legally responsible for the waste your business produces. You have a legal duty to:

• keep waste to a minimum by doing everything you can to prevent, reuse, recycle or recover waste
• sort and store waste safely and securely
• arrange a contract with the council to dispose of your waste or another registered waste carrier.

Are business waste collections included in business rates?

No, we do not include it in your business rates so you have the freedom to choose how you dispose of your business waste.

How can I get rid of my business waste?

You can use the council's competitive and professional commercial waste collection service. We offer tailor made solutions for both general waste and recyclables. Find out more on our commercial waste website:

Other options

What are waste transfer notes?

For each load of non-hazardous waste that is moved off your premises you need a waste transfer note or a document with the same information, such as an invoice. You can find out more about waste transfer notes on the GOV.UK website.