Garden Waste Permits Frequently Asked Questions
Ordering a permit FAQs
Who can participate in the Chargeable Garden Waste Collection Service?
The Chargeable Garden Waste Collection Service will only be available to council tax rated domestic households who currently receive a brown bin service, i.e. have a scheduled collection on a brown bin collection route.
I don't currently have a brown bin, can I request one?
Yes, brown bins can be requested online through the request a bin online form at Request a Blue Bin or Brown Bin
If the brown bin is used for food waste only then a permit is not required. If you would like to participate in the Garden Waste Collection Service, please ensure you receive delivery of the brown bin before applying for your garden waste permit.
Can I participate in the Garden Waste Collection Service if I have an assisted collection?
If you are currently registered to receive an assisted collection for a brown bin and would like to participate in the garden waste service, then you will need to buy a garden waste permit.
You can continue to have an assisted collection of your brown bin for food waste only without purchasing a garden waste permit.
What happens to my brown bin if I don't opt into the service?
Should you not wish to buy a permit for the Garden Waste Collection Service, you will still be required to retain your brown bin for food waste collections at the property. The brown bin is provided by the council and should not be removed.
Households with a surplus second brown bin can request its removal online via Request the Removal of a Bin or by telephoning the Customer Service Centre on 01506 280000 (Option 3 then Option 3). These bins will either be reused or recycled, depending on their condition.
How do I apply and pay for a permit?
The annual charge per household for the collection of garden waste in 2024/25 is £50 for up to 2 bins per household. The permit will be valid from 1 June 2024 to 31 May 2025 and will be personalised to your home address and permits are available to purchase from Monday 8 April 2024. You can easily apply and pay for your permit online at Brown Bins
If you require assistance with your application, you can call the Customer Service Centre on 01506 280000 (Option 3 then Option 1) where an adviser will assist you. You will need a credit or debit card.
Can I transfer a permit to a different property if I move home?
A permit stays with the house - it can't move with you. If you're moving house within West Lothian, you'll need to purchase a new replacement permit for your new home, if your new home doesn't already have permit. If your new home already has a permit, you can use that permit.
Are there any concessions or discounts?
No discounts or concessions are available for the garden waste permit (such as to charities or means-tested households). Regardless of when the permit is purchased, the £50 annual charge will apply.