Frequently Asked Questions

Recycling Bin Service

Change in service Blue Bins

This change in the service has been made to achieve the Government recycling targets and we are confident of meeting these targets with your help.

The new system will increase the amount of recycling that Derry City Council can achieve.

Hazardous / Special waste may require special treatment as it can be particularly damaging to the environment and may be banned from landfill disposal. Hazardous waste includes:

Motor oil
Motor vehicle batteries
Asbestos material
Used paint
Building and construction waste

Asbestos is an extremely hazardous material, which should be handled with great care. It's best to telephone the centre before taking your asbestos to make sure the container is not full or you may be turned away, the phone number is 02871 365151. Please follow these guidelines when handling asbestos:

· wear a disposable mask and protective clothing
· wash thoroughly after handling it
· keep it damp to prevent dust
· keep sheets whole - do not break them
· double bag small pieces and secure with sticky tape

Ensure all asbestos is marked as asbestos. Only household asbestos can be accepted at civic amenity sites. All Commercial Asbestos must be disposed of using a specialist waste handling service.

Building rubble - should not be put into your bin - it is the responsibility of builders to dispose of their waste so ensure they take it with them when they go. If your wheelie bin is too heavy it isn't safe to clip to the lifting mechanism of the collection vehicle and the crew will not be able to take it.

Medical/Clinical waste cannot be disposed of in wheeled bins but requires a special collection. Clinical waste such as medical dressings and used syringes are only collected from individual households at the request of health trusts, health centres, doctors and district nurses. Contact the appropriate Health Trust for further information.

What is the waste cycle?