South Derbyshire District Council - Brown bin composting scheme FAQs

Frequently-asked questions relating to the kitchen and garden waste 'brown bin' scheme.

What can I put in my brown bin?
You can recycle kitchen waste and garden waste. For more details, please see Bags, bins and boxes.
How long does the compost scheme run for?
The Kitchen and Garden Waste Brown Bin Scheme runs for approximately 46 weeks a year. Please see your calendar leaflet for information.
What happens while the scheme is closed over Christmas?
Your black wheeled bin will be emptied every week until the composting scheme resumes, please see your calendar leaflet and Christmas refuse collection information for details.
Do I put my brown bin out in the same way as my black bin?
Yes, but on alternate weeks
What happens if I put the wrong bin out for collection?
We will not be able to empty it - please check your calendar or this website to find out your collection day for refuse / recycling
What happens if I run out of room in my black bin?
Please use the multi-material kerbside scheme we provide, or your local recycling centre.
What happens if I recycle all I can but still have no room in my black bin?
Please call Customer Services for advice on telephone number 01283 595 795 or email customer.services@south-derbys.gov.uk
Will the brown bin get messy inside?
Not if you wrap any messy waste in one sheet of newspaper before you place it in the bin. A sheet of paper at the base of your bin will help to keep it clean. For more advice, see How to Keep Your Bin Clean
How can I keep my kitchen waste separate?
We can supply you with a free kitchen bin if you contact Customer Services on 01283 595 795 or email customer.services@south-derbys.gov.uk
Should I put all my kitchen waste in the brown bin?
Yes. Please see Composting or your compost information leaflet for a list of all the types of waste that can go into your brown bin.
Must I have a brown bin if I am already composting my own material?
No, let us know if you do not want a brown bin. We will then just empty your black bin once a fortnight.
Can I keep to the existing scheme and have my black bin emptied weekly?
No, the refuse freighter only visits the compost site and cannot take general rubbish on brown bin collection days.
What will you do with the material you collect in the brown bins?
It will be taken to one of the composting sites operated by our contractors where it will be composted to make a soil improver or mulch and is sold via garden centres or in bulk.
What if I am on a sack collection?
We will supply you with special compostable sacks if your property receives a refuse sack collection.

Contact details

South Derbyshire District Council
Environmental Services
Civic Offices
Civic Way
Swadlincote
Derbyshire
DE11 0AH

Telephone: 01283 595 795
Online: Contact Form
E-mail: customer.services@south-derbys.gov.uk

Page ref: SDDC 305

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