Van permits for Household Waste Recycling Centres

If you want to take rubbish to a Household Waste Recycling Centre in Bradford using a van or big trailer, you might need a permit.

Why do I need a permit?

Recycling centres are for people who live in Bradford district to get rid of their own household waste. Some people try to bring business or trade waste, which isn’t allowed. The permit helps stop this and makes sure businesses pay to get rid of their waste properly.

Types of permits

There are three kinds of permits:

  • Annual permit: for people who use a van as their only personal vehicle. You can visit the recycling centre regularly.
  • Temporary permit: for people using a hired van or a work van. You can visit three times in a year. The permit lasts 14 days.
  • Recycling permit: for businesses that want to recycle clean cardboard, glass or scrap metal waste.

Can I get a permit?

You can get a permit if:

  • You live in Bradford district and pay Council Tax to Bradford Council.
  • You are bringing rubbish from your own home.

How to get a permit

You must apply in person at:

You can apply Monday to Friday only, from 8am to 12 noon and from 12.30pm to 4pm. Permits will not be issued outside these times.

You will need bring the following documents:

Temporary permit

  • Driving licence
  • Council Tax bill (with same address as driving licence)
  • Hire agreement or letter from the van owner saying you can use it to get rid of your household waste

Recycling permit

  • Driving licence
  • Business rates bill
  • Vehicle Registration Document
  • Waste Carrier Licence and Waste Transfer Note (More information can be found at Waste duty of care: code of practice)

Can I use my work van?

Yes, but you need a letter from your boss saying you can use it for your own rubbish.

Can I use a hired van?

Yes, but only with a temporary permit.

Can I use my friend’s van and their permit?

No. But you can borrow the van and get your own temporary permit.

Extra information

  • If you use a car, you need a residents permit.
  • Traders can bring trade waste to Bowling Back Lane or Keighley HWRC if they pay. The Council provide a commercial collection service on request.
  • Some sites have height barriers (Midland Road HWRC, Dowley Gap HWRC and Dealburn Road HWRC). If your van is taller than 1.8m, use Bradford HWRC or Keighley HWRC.

Need help?

Call 01274 432442 or 01535 618139

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