Black bins

Recycling operative collecting a black bin We collect black bins from every household in Belfast. They are used for general waste that isn't suitable for recycling.

You should also have either a blue bin or kerbside recycling box

Depending on where you live, you may also have a green food waste bin or brown bin

What can I put in my black bin?

You can 'slim your waste' by separating some of your rubbish into your blue bin or kerbside recycling box, or your brown bin or green food waste bin if you have one.

You can put the following items in your black bin:
For more information on which items you can or can't recycle, check our A to Z directory of recycling

Collection dates and times

If you only have a black bin, it will be collected every week.

If you have a black bin, as well as a blue bin, brown bin or both, it will be collected every other week.

To find out when your bin is due to be collected, call us on 028 9027 0230 or email refusecollections@belfastcity.gov.uk


Don't forget to always leave your bin out by 7am, and return your bin to your property as soon as possible after collection or, at the latest, before 8pm on the day of collection.

On public and bank holidays, as well as Christmas and New Year, collection dates may vary.

Order a bin

Black bins are available in two sizes - 140 litre and 240 litre (standard size). You can order a bin online, by phone or by writing to us. If you live in rented accommodation, your landlord should provide you with a bin. If you are a Northern Ireland Housing Executive tenant, you should let them know that you need a bin so they can place the order on your behalf.

Bin labels

The label below contains details of when your bins will be collected on public and bank holidays (including Christmas and New Year) in 2012. Attach it to your bin to remind you when to put it out for collection.