Household Recycling Centre Vehicle Permit Guidelines

If you’re planning to visit a Household Recycling Centre (HRC), it’s important to understand the vehicle permit requirements to ensure a smooth experience. Whether you need a permit depends on the type of vehicle you’re using and if you’re a Blue Badge holder. This guide covers all the essentials for using HRCs under the latest regulations.

Permit Exemption for Blue Badge Holders

Blue Badge holders are exempt from needing a permit, but they must present their Blue Badge to the HRC staff upon arrival. This allows Blue Badge holders to use the facilities without going through the registration process required for other vehicles.

Vehicles Requiring a Permit

If you are using one of the following vehicle types, you’ll need a permit to access the HRC:

• Vans
• Vehicles with removed rear seats or blanked-out windows
• Flatbed or pickup trucks
• Vans converted into horseboxes
• Trailers between 1.8 and 3 meters in length

These vehicles are subject to the permit process to manage site use and ensure safe operations.

Vehicles Not Requiring a Permit

Certain vehicles are exempt from requiring a permit. These include:

• Cars
• 4x4s (except those modified as listed above)
• Small trailers (under 1.8 meters)
• Fully fitted camper vans

Owners of these vehicles can freely access the HRC without applying for a permit.

Prohibited Vehicles

To maintain safety and operational efficiency, certain vehicles are prohibited from entering the HRC premises. These include:

• Trailers over 3 meters long
• Vans, pickups, or flatbeds towing any trailer
• Horsebox trailers
• Vehicles weighing over 3.5 tonnes

Switching to the Electronic Permit System

In May 2024, an electronic permit system was introduced, phasing out the paper-based permits. If you still have a paper permit, you must reapply for the new electronic version.

How to Apply for a Permit

You can apply for a permit online using iLforms. The application process takes approximately two working days, and you’ll need to provide:

• Your contact details and full postal address
• The registration number of your van or pickup
• The size of your trailer

A processing fee of £20 is required to complete your application.

Receiving and Using Your Permit

Upon approval, your electronic permit, which includes a QR code, will be sent to your email. This permit grants you up to 12 visits per year. When visiting the HRC, show your QR-code permit to the staff for each recorded visit.

If you do not have email access, you may contact Customer Services at 0300 456 0102 to request a postal copy.

For More Information

For any additional questions about HRC permits, refer to the Household Recycling Centre’s frequently asked questions page on their website. This resource offers further details on vehicle access and permit use to make your HRC visits convenient and compliant with current regulations.