Kerbside bin rules and local laws
Bins left on the kerbside can attract birds such as cockatoos and may be knocked over by wind, dogs or people, spilling litter onot streets. Empty bins can also advertise that a property is unoccupied.
Under Council’s Community Amenity Local Law 2021 (Part 7 Waste Management)(PDF, 4MB):
- bins must not be placed on the kerbside more than 24 hours before the scheduled collection day.
- empty bins must be taken inside the property within 48 hours after collection.
Following these timeframes helps reduce litter, keep streets tidy, and prevent bins becoming hazards for pedestrians and vehicles.
FAQs
What happens if bins are not put out or taken inside on time?
If bins are found on the kerbside outside required timeframes, Council may take the following steps:
- First Offence
Write to the property owner advising of the requirements and providing guidance on bin management.
- Second Offence
Issue a Notice of Comply to the property owner requiring the issued to be fixed within a set timeframe.
- Third Offence
Issue a $350 penalty notice to the property owner.
Council officers will also conduct follow-up inspections for properties that receive a first offence letter or Notice to Comply.
What if you're not home on bin night?
If you’re not home on bin night, consider these options:
- ask a neighbour or friend to put out and bring in your bins
- arrange for a property manager or business to put out and bring in your bins
- take your waste to Council transfer stations in Anglesea, Lorne or Winchelsea
- use after-hours bins for small amounts of household rubbish, food waste, recycling and glass outside Anglesea and Lorne transfer stations
- drop off small amounts of household rubbish, food waste, recycling and glass at the Torquay waste drop-off.
What if the property is a holiday rental?
The property owner is responsible for ensuring bins are put out and brought in within the required timeframes, even for holiday rentals.
Council's holiday rental kit provides resources to help guests use the four-bin system correctly, including when and which bins to put out.
The kit includes printable posters, free bin stickers, and fridge magnets.