Waste and Recycling

Answers to frequently asked questions

Section 6:  Vehicle types permitted at HWRCs



Common questions in this section:


Why are you restricting vans and large trailers from using the sites?

Commercial type vehicles such as vans and large trailers entering HWRCs are mainly used by traders trying to dispose of their waste. Trade waste is not accepted at HWRCs. Vans and large trailers also cause congestion, particularly on smaller sites, affecting the service for householders. By enforcing trade waste controls and restricting the number of commercial type vehicles entering the sites, HWRCs will become quicker and easier for householders to use.

What is a commercial vehicle?

For the purposes of trade waste controls, Hampshire County Council defines a commercial type vehicle as one with no rear windows and/or rear seats, and/or has an open back.

I have a van (or small trailer) for my domestic use – can I still use the sites?  

We recognise that some householders use a commercial type vehicle to dispose of their household waste, so these residents will need to apply for a free permit for their vehicle before being able to enter the site. Cars towing trailers with a carrying capacity under 1.8m x 1.2m (6ft x 4ft) will not need to apply for a permit and can continue to access the sites as they currently do. From May trailers measuring between 1.8m and 3m in length will require a permit to access the sites.

Towed trailers will not be permitted to enter the Alresford HWRC at any time due to its limited manoeuvring space.

Are any vehicles not allowed in at all?

Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes in weight will not be allowed to enter sites under any circumstances, and nor will vehicles pulling trailers longer than 3m in length.

Hired vehicles that have been hired for longer than two days or that attempt to enter a site without a valid hire agreement document will be turned away.

What if I hire a van?

Commercial type vehicles which have been hired for two days or less will not require a permit. Householders who have hired a commercial type vehicle should bring their hire purchase agreement document with them to the site and show it to a site operative.

What if I borrow a friend’s van?

Permits will be issued for one vehicle, so any member of your household or a friend can visit the site in that vehicle to deposit waste from their own household in accordance with the waste acceptance policy.