How bin collections work

Most households have a 4-bin collection system.

On your collection day:

  • put your bins out before 7am
  • bins may be emptied at any time between 7am and 4:30pm
  • place your bin at the back of the footpath, with handles facing the road
  • place bins together with your neighbour’s bins where possible
  • remove your bins as soon as possible after collection

If your bin is not out on time, it will not be emptied.

Check the bin calendar to confirm your collection day.

Collections for different property types

Your bin collection may be different depending on your property type.

Waste and recycling in flats

If you live in a flat or shared building:

  • waste and recycling bins are provided where possible
  • space and number of properties may limit how many bins are available

General waste collection will vary depending on your building.

If you’re unsure about your arrangements, contact your landlord.

If recycling bins are not available, use your nearest Recycling Points.

Sack collections

Your may have a sack collection if:

  • there is no space for a bin
  • your property cannot be accessed by collection vehicles

If you are on a sack collection:

  • we deliver 50 sacks every 6 months (about 2 per week)
  • only Fife Council branded sacks will be collected
  • recycling is not available with this service

Check your bin calendar for your collection date. Sack collections will show as a blue bin collection.

Rural properties

The waste and recycling service provided to rural properties will vary. This will depend on their ease of access, condition of access road and ability to store bins at road end.

We provide up to a 3 bin service to rural properties including:

  • General (non-recyclable) waste
  • Plastics and cans collection
  • Paper and cardboard collection

Food and garden waste collection is not available for rural properties.

Putting bins out during high winds

High winds can blow bins over, especially green bins.

Only put your bin out if it needs to be emptied.

If your bin needs emptied:

  • make sure the lid is fully closed
  • put your bin out on the morning of collection, before 7am
  • place it in a sheltered location for example beside a wall or fence
  • pace bins together with neighbours where possible
  • bring your bin in as soon as possible after collection

If your bin does not need emptied consider waiting until your next collection. You may need to store waste temporarily or use a Recycling Point or Recycling Centre


    Last updated: 10 Jun 2026