Torridge District Council reminds property owners claiming small business rate relief to arrange trade waste collections

Torridge District Council is reminding property owners who receive Small Business Rate Relief on their properties, to make sure that they arrange a trade waste collection service for that address.  Anyone registered as a small business by law is not eligible for residential waste collections and must have a private waste carrier for any waste that may be generated at the property.   

Torridge District Council has recently issued over 1,000 letters to property owners suspected of using the residential waste service illegitimately.

Torridge District Council is committed towards ensuring compliance with the legislation that applies to managing domestic and commercial waste within the council.  Failure to produce waste documents is an offence under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and levies a fixed penalty of £180 (One Hundred and Eighty) with further action of court proceedings a fine on Conviction up to £5,000, or, on indictment an unlimited fine if found to be mis-using the service.

Councillor Chris Leather, Lead Member for Operational Services, Torridge District Council, said:

"Small Business Rate Relief is a discount on business rates, but it doesn't cover the cost of waste collection.  By law, holiday lets, and self-catering accommodation are not allowed to use the Council's household waste collection service, as these premises are businesses and are required to pay for a business waste collection and disposal charges."

Anyone who is unsure of their obligations or have any queries on eligibility should email recycle@torridge.gov.uk

June 2025