The Council implemented it’s no side waste policy in February 2024 and has seen the numbers of incidents drop considerably.

The district's recycling rate has also been positively impacted by the policy’s introduction, with the rate reaching an all-time high of 57.9% helping the Council move towards its net-zero carbon goal.

This good news is thanks to the efforts made by over 99% of Mid Devon residents who have observed the new scheme. A vast amount of recycling which was put in black bins/sacks is now placed in the appropriate recycling containers.

To support Mid Devon District Council’s recycling initiatives, town and parish representatives were invited to visit the Council’s waste management depot at Carlu Close. Valuable insights were given into the district’s waste and recycling processes, and where our waste ends up.

Councillor Josh Wright, Cabinet Member for Service Delivery and Continuous Improvement said:

"I am delighted to see the efforts made by residents to help us reduce side waste. This achievement helps us manage waste more effectively, however we hope to see a further reduction in the amount of recyclable materials being put into residual black bags over the coming months.”

Residents are reminded that waste and recycling should be placed out for collection either the night before or by 6am on the day of collection. Waste placed outside of these times could now be considered a littering enforcement matter.

If you are struggling to contain your waste within your wheelie bin/sack, or need help with your waste or recycling, please call 01884 255 255. If you need additional recycling containers the easiest way to request these is through the My Mid Devon self-service portal.

Residents can now watch a short video of the Council’s waste and recycling process.