Overview
- From March 31, 2026, all English local authorities must collect food and garden waste, paper and card, mixed dry recyclables, and residual waste as separate streams.
- Most households will use four containers, though councils choose the bin or box types and are already rolling them out in some areas.
- Officials have highlighted detailed exclusion lists, such as non-packaging glassware, pots and pans, compostable‑labelled plastics, tissues and wet wipes, which must not go in recycling.
- Fixed-penalty enforcement is possible for rule breaches, with reports of fines up to £400, and residents are advised to check specific local requirements.
- A further phase from March 31, 2027 adds plastic film to recyclables, while micro-businesses have until that date to comply with certain separation rules.