Litter Bins

Torfaen County Borough Council encourages everybody to dispose of their rubbish, using a litter bin rather than depositing it on the floor, by using the litter bin it will help improve the local environment in which we all live. Litter / dog bins can be used as a dual purpose if it prevents litter being deposited on the street.

Litter in public places is unsightly and creates a negative impression of an area. It is also dangerous to animals and small children, it is an offence and can cause infestations of rats and other vermin. Litter ranges from a single sweet wrapper, to a bag full of rubbish.

The Environmental Protection Act of 1990 states that if a person drops, throws, deposits, or leaves anything that causes defacement in a public place, they are committing a littering offence. A person is guilty of an offence if they throw down, drop or deposit any litter in the open air (land or water), and leave it there.

The Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 extended the definition of litter. It confirms that cigarette ends and chewing gum are classed as litter - and anyone caught dropping them can be fined.

Anyone committing this offence in public places can be served with a fixed penalty notice of £75. Refusing to pay could lead to prosecution, which if successful could result in a fine of up to £2,500.

How many bins are there?

There are over 700 litterbins in the County Borough of Torfaen and more than 35 dog bins.

How regularly are the bins emptied?

Litter bins that are located within shopping precincts are emptied on a daily basis, bins which are located throughout the County Borough are emptied on a weekly basis.

Who do I contact if a litter bin is not emptied?

To report a problem with a litter bin, report a full bin or to request a litter bin at a new location, please telephone us on 01495 762200 or e-mail Street Scene.

To report a missed collection or a damaged litter bin you will need to provide:

• The location of the litter bin(s)
• Your name, address, telephone number and email address
• A brief description of the problem.

Can I put rubbish from home in a public bin?

Refuse from properties should not be placed in litter bins, as this is an offence. 

Can a business use a litter bin for commercial waste?

We will investigate reports of misuse, particularly businesses dumping commercial refuse in litter bins. For these reports, an Environmental Officer will visit the site and attempt to find evidence which could result in a fine being issued.

What about litter from people handing out leaflets?

From April 2006 the Council received more powers to help improve the environment with the introduction of another section of the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005.

It can now restrict the distribution of flyers, hand-outs and pamphlets that can end up as litter. This occurs in designated areas and people will be able to apply for permits to distribute leaflets in that area.