Waste and Recycling

Answers to frequently asked questions

Section 8:  Trailer restrictions at HWRCs



Common questions in this section:


Why have you introduced a trailer size restriction?

Studies suggest that large trailers are commonly used to transport trade waste into HWRCs, which is against the terms of the licences issued to HWRCs by the Environment Agency. Large trailers also cause congestion and safety risks at sites due to difficulty in manoeuvring them in confined spaces and their turning capabilities.

What size trailers are acceptable?

Trailers with an internal carrying capacity of 1.8m x 1.2m (6ft x 4ft) or smaller can continue using HWRCs as before. This trailer size limit has been selected as it incorporates all domestic sized trailers, as well as a number of larger, more commercial type trailers. The great majority of trailers which currently access sites will fall within this size limit. Trailers between 1.8m and 3m in length will be able to apply for a permit to use an HWRC by calling 0845 603 5634.

How was the trailer restriction decision taken?

The decision regarding trailer size has not been taken lightly and is based on best practice in other authorities, plus research and information gathering into domestic trailer use in Hampshire. Dorset County Council have operated an identical scheme since January 2003, while a large number of other councils do likewise. The evidence includes survey data obtained from other councils already operating such a scheme,which clearly indicates a 1.8m x 1.2m (6ft x 4ft) restriction as being the preferred solution. Clearly not all trailers over this size are depositing trade waste, but a large majority do. It should however be noted that for health and safety reasons, trailers can cause problems whatever their relative size, due to the difficulties posed through manoeuvring them in busy and confined spaces. In May 2008, it was agreed to allow trailers longer than 1.8m (up to a maximum of 3m) used by householders to receive a 12 visit permit like van users can.

Are you preventing householders from using their local site?

The restrictions on use of large trailers (greater than 1.8m x 1.2m (6ft x 4ft) carrying capacity) do not prevent householders from using their local site. It just means they cannot use a large trailer (over 3m in length) when visiting the site. Householders using a small to medium trailer, a car or 4x4 can continue to use the site to dispose of their household bulky and garden waste. Trailers between 1.8m and 3m in length can continue to use the sites providing they have a valid permit.

What are the health and safety implications of large trailers?

For health and safety reasons, trailers can cause problems whatever their relative size, due to the difficulties posed through manoeuvring them in busy and confined spaces. Many HWRCs in Hampshire are restricted in size, and the combined length of a towing vehicle and a trailer can cause obstructions for other site users. There can also be safety risks when reversing trailers while people are walking around carrying bulky waste materials.

How can I apply for a permit to use my trailer?

You can apply for a trailer permit by calling 0845 603 5634 or by using the online form.

Can I apply for a trailer permit and a van permit?

Permits are issued one per household only. If you wish to use a trailer that can only be pulled by a commercial vehicle, then the trailer permit can be issued as long as the van is not used to carry additional waste at the same time. Site staff may check this.

What other options exist if I cannot use an oversized trailer?

If your trailer is larger than the stated 3m limit, you can visit the site using your car or 4x4. If the volume of waste is too large for your domestic vehicle (and cannot be transported in more than one journey), you can arrange for a charity organisation or your local district council to collect it from your home for a small fee, or hire a van for a short period. Hiring a skip or purchasing a waste bag are other options. Householders using vans that have been hired for two days or less should bring their hire purchase agreement documents with them in lieu of a permit. If you disposing of garden waste, you may wish to consider home composting and/or making use of your local council’s garden free waste collection service.

Can I wheel my trailer into the site and/or park outside?

Walking waste into an HWRC is not advisable as sites do not have pavements and there are many vehicle movements occurring which can cause a health and safety risk. Similarly, unhooking and wheeling a trailer into a site can be dangerous.

Can I take trailers to New Alresford HWRC?

Towed trailers of any size are not permitted to enter the New Alresford HWRC in Prospect Road due to its limited size and space for manoeuvring. This has been the case for several years and is not a new policy. As a special case for this HWRC only, householders with a domestic trailer measuring 3m or smaller may park outside and wheel their trailer into the site, but should contact a member of site staff on arrival to confirm it is safe to do so.