Garden Services Guide

Garden Waste Removal: Complete UK Guide 2024

Everything you need to know about garden waste disposal, from council collections to professional clearance services

August 2024 11 min read Garden Guide

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Garden Waste Removal Guide

Garden waste removal is one of the most common challenges facing UK homeowners. Whether you're dealing with seasonal leaf fall, an overgrown garden, or a major landscaping project, knowing your options for disposing of green waste can save you time, money, and backache.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore all your garden waste disposal options, from council collection services to professional clearance, plus money-saving tips and eco-friendly alternatives.

Garden Waste Removal Options at a Glance

Council Collection

Β£40-60

per year

Best for: Regular, small amounts

DIY Tip Run

Β£Free-20

per trip

Best for: Occasional clear-outs

Professional Service

Β£80-300

per load

Best for: Large projects, no hassle

What Counts as Garden Waste?

Accepted Garden Waste

  • Grass cuttings and lawn clippings
  • Leaves, twigs, and small branches
  • Hedge and shrub trimmings
  • Plants, flowers, and weeds
  • Bark, wood chippings, and sawdust
  • Christmas trees (seasonal)

NOT Garden Waste

  • Soil, turf, or stones
  • Plant pots and containers
  • Food waste or kitchen scraps
  • Pet waste or animal bedding
  • Garden furniture or tools
  • Treated or painted wood

Council Garden Waste Collections

Most UK councils offer a dedicated garden waste collection service, though it's usually a paid subscription rather than part of your standard council tax.

How Council Collections Work

1
Subscribe to the service - Usually Β£40-60 per year for fortnightly collections
2
Receive your brown/green bin - Typically 240-litre wheeled bin
3
Put bin out on collection day - Usually runs March to November
4
Waste is composted - Turned into soil improver sold at local recycling centers

Advantages

  • βœ“ Cost-effective for regular garden maintenance
  • βœ“ No loading or driving to recycling center
  • βœ“ Environmentally friendly - waste is composted
  • βœ“ Reliable schedule

Disadvantages

  • βœ— Limited to one bin capacity per fortnight
  • βœ— Seasonal service (usually no winter collections)
  • βœ— Not suitable for large one-off clearances
  • βœ— Strict rules on what can go in bin

Professional Garden Clearance Services

For large gardens, major clearance projects, or if you simply don't have the time or energy, professional garden clearance is the hassle-free option.

When to Use Professional Services

Overgrown Gardens

Years of neglect requiring major clearance

End of Tenancy

Landlords needing quick garden restoration

Large Projects

Tree felling, landscaping, complete redesign

Time Constraints

Need it done quickly without DIY hassle

Physical Limitations

Heavy work beyond your capability

Estate Clearances

House sales requiring garden preparation

Professional Garden Clearance Costs

Small Garden Clear

1-2 hours, single van load

Β£80-150
Medium Garden Clear

Half day, 1-2 van loads

Β£150-300
Large Garden Clear

Full day+, multiple loads

Β£300-800+

What's Included in Professional Service?

All labor and equipment
Loading and transportation
Responsible disposal/recycling
Site sweep after clearance
Same-day service available
Waste carrier documentation

Eco-Friendly Garden Waste Solutions

Home Composting

Turn soft garden waste into nutrient-rich compost for your garden. Reduces waste and saves money on soil improver.

  • βœ“ Free composting bins from councils
  • βœ“ Ready in 6-12 months
  • βœ“ Reduces bin collections needed

Mulch Mowing

Leave grass clippings on lawn to decompose naturally. Acts as fertilizer and retains moisture.

  • βœ“ No collection needed
  • βœ“ Feeds your lawn
  • βœ“ Saves time and effort

Wildlife Areas

Create log piles or leave areas wild. Provides habitat for beneficial insects, hedgehogs, and birds.

  • βœ“ Supports biodiversity
  • βœ“ Natural pest control
  • βœ“ Educational for children

Need Professional Garden Clearance?

Clear Space Team offers fast, affordable garden clearance across Surrey. Get your free quote today!

Call 07826 917948 | Mon-Sat: 7am - 6pm, Closed Sundays