Waste Storage Guidelines

Local Government
Waste Storage Guide

for Northern Ireland
September 2010
Issue #1
Supported by:
Waste Storage Guide 1
Local Government
Waste Storage Guide
for Northern Ireland
September 2010
Issue #1
2 Waste Storage Guide
IMPORTANT NOTES
Please contact the relevant council’s Building Control Service to confirm whether this is the latest
version of the guide.
The latest version of this guide should be available to download from any council website.
While this document provides detailed guidance and advice, it is not intended to be an alternative
to discussion and consultation. It is important, therefore, to consult with the relevant council’s
Building Control Service early in the design stage and regularly throughout the development
process of each individual project.
This guide is designed to assist you in achieving compliance with relevant legislation. However, it is
not a replacement for legislation, and compliance with the guide does not automatically guarantee
compliance with all relevant legislation. The onus is on the architect, developer and property
owner to be familiar with and act in accordance with prevailing legal requirements.
This guide relates only to waste storage and access; you should consult with councils and other
agencies on other matters, as normal, throughout the design and development process.
Whilst every care has been taken in the preparation of this document, no liability shall rest with
any council for any error or omission. Examples and equipment references are for indicative and
illustrative purposes only and it remains the responsibility of the Applicant to ensure designs/ waste
management plans meet requisite standards.
Table of Contents
Acknowledgements 4
Foreword 5
Introduction 6
General Considerations and Information 9
1. Estimating the Weekly Waste Arisings 11

2. Calculating the Storage Capacity Required 14
3. Number and Types of Waste Containers Required 18
4. Calculating the Size of a Waste Storage Area 20
5. Siting and Design Considerations for a Waste Storage Area 28
6. Access Considerations for a Waste Storage Area 34
7. Siting, Design and Access Considerations for a Bulky Household Waste Storage Area for
Appartments 38
8. Siting, Design and Access Considerations for the Waste Collection Point 42
List of Consultees 44
Definitions / Glossary of Terms 45
APPENDIX I Gradients 49
APPENDIX II Waste Storage Equipment 50
APPENDIX III Waste Compactors 57
APPENDIX IV Waste Balers 66
APPENDIX V Bring Sites 70
APPENDIX VI Vehicle Dimensions and Access Requirements 71
APPENDIX VII Waste Chute Systems 74
APPENDIX VIII Alternative Treatment, Storage and Collection Methods 76
APPENDIX IX Design of a Waste Management Plan 80
APPENDIX X Worked Examples 82
APPENDIX XI Relevant Agencies and Legislation 92
APPENDIX XII Part J of the Building Regulations (NI) 2000 (as amended) 97
APPENDIX XIII References 99
Acknowledgements
The following individuals and their organisations have contributed to the development of this
guidance:
Technical Working Group Members
Trevor Burns Banbridge District Council

Marcus Campbell (Chairman) Belfast City Council
William Frazer Banbridge District Council
Patrick Hobson Down District Council
Yvonne Irvine Belfast City Council
Alan Mayrs Belfast City Council
Darren McCamphill Belfast City Council
Terry Mitchell Belfast City Council
Keith Patterson Waste & Resources Action Programme
Craig Wisener Coleraine Borough Council
The Department of Finance and Personnel
The Department of Finance and Personnel, Building Standards Branch, assisted by providing
comment on the drafts of the guide.
Foreword
We all have a right to live, work and relax in a healthy and safe
environment and while there are many obvious and high-profile
factors involved in achieving this, one important factor – waste - is
often overlooked.
Concerns about sustainability and climate change are changing

how we view waste and what we do with it. We are moving away
from waste management towards an era of resource management.
Major investments are being put into infrastructure and systems
to ‘reduce, re-use and recycle’ waste – rather than just ‘dump’ it.
Meeting the challenge to ‘rethink waste ‘ is clearly underway.
The Executive has sought to give a strategic focus to introduce

legislation, policy and infrastructure to improve waste management
in Northern Ireland. Councils have launched new collection
services and major educational campaigns. Residents and businesses are getting used to different
coloured bins for separate items, different collection days and an ongoing stream of information
about what they can or should do with their waste.
Despite all of this, problems arise at many homes and businesses because they simply do not have
enough space to store their waste. If waste is not properly planned for in the design of buildings,
it can lead to over-flowing bins and storage areas, environmental health risks and obstructions on
roads and footways.
This guide hopes to address that problem by providing practical advice and guidance to ensure
that waste is properly planned for at the earliest stage of the design and build process.
While the guide has been developed by local government, I am pleased at their successful
consultation and collaboration with central government to achieve a document which is useful to
both. As a result, the DoE Planning Service will include the guide as an Informative on Planning
Applications, and the DFP Building Standards Branch considers the guide to be complementary to
Part J (Solid waste in buildings) of the Building Regulations.
I am very pleased, therefore, to commend the Local Government Waste Storage Guide for Northern
Ireland to you, in the belief that it will provide greater clarity for building designers and practical
benefits for property owners and managers.
Minister of the Environment

Edwin Poots MLA
Introduction
Purpose
This document gives guidance and advice to architects, developers and building contractors to
ensure that arrangements for storing and accessing waste are properly considered when designing
individual buildings and building developments.
Background
Many councils have found that poor planning for waste storage and access can lead to a range
of problems for those charged with collecting the waste. However, poor design can also cause
considerable difficulties, including health & safety hazards, for residents. This guide aims to ensure
that sufficient consideration is given to the issues of waste storage and access at the design stage.
This guide builds on guidance previously provided by Belfast City Council1. It has been developed
and produced by Northern Ireland’s three Waste Management Partnerships (led by Belfast City
Council) in association with the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA) and the
Local Government Technical Advisers Group (TAG), to be suitable for province-wide use.
Scope
The guidance in this document applies only to solid waste in relation to:
 new builds;
 extensions; and
 changes of use
for:
 residential buildings; and

 commercial and light industrial buildings.
This document covers the requirements for household waste and commercial waste. It does not
cover specialised wastes, such as clinical and hazardous wastes.
1 ‘Waste and Recycling Storage Requirements: A guide for developers, architects and building contractors’, (2005), Belfast City
Council
How to use this Guide
i. General
The guide is divided into sections. Sections 1 - 8 form the core of the document, providing step-by-
step guidance to ensure that any development is designed well and in accordance with legislation
relevant to waste storage and access.
 Sections 1 - 4 deal primarily with estimations and calculations.

 Sections 5 – 8 deal with the physical design characteristics.
Appendices at the end of the document serve two broad purposes:
 They provide some general supporting information, including worked examples.

 They outline the roles of other relevant agencies, along with the key legislation relevant to
waste storage and access.
It may be useful to break large residential developments down into more manageable constituent
elements. Dwellings should be considered separately to non-domestic elements of mixed-use
developments.
This guide is designed to assist you in achieving compliance with relevant legislation. However, it is
not a replacement for legislation, and compliance with the guide does not automatically guarantee
compliance with all relevant legislation. The onus is on the architect, developer and property
owner to be familiar with and act in accordance with prevailing legal requirements.
The information in this guide will be sufficient for you to produce a Waste Management Plan for
your development. Detailed guidance on the content of Waste Management Plans is included in
Appendix IX.
ii. Council Considerations
Waste collection schemes, methods and frequencies can vary between councils, and even within
the same council area, which makes it difficult to give definitive guidance on some matters. This
guide allows flexibility for the various approaches taken by different councils; it is important,
therefore, to consult with the relevant council early in the design stage and regularly
throughout the development process of each individual project.
iii. Waste Collection Technologies
Waste treatment and collection technologies are continually changing and developing. As a result,
the use of traditional ‘bins’ and ‘bin lorries’ is no longer the only available option. In fact, in light of
declining natural resources, rising fuel costs and climate change considerations, this method may
become less and less sustainable in the mid to long term.
Therefore, some alternative collection options are outlined for your consideration in Appendix
VIII. However, not all councils or commercial waste services will be in a position to support such
methods, so you will need to discuss the possibilities with the relevant council or commercial waste
contractor directly.
All of the advice in this guide assumes the use of traditional waste containers. You should consult
with the relevant council and apply the guidance as appropriate where alternative methods are
proposed.
Alternative Waste Storage Strategies and Methods
This guide details waste storage and access arrangements which will help meet the requirements
of relevant legislation and achieve best practice. We recognise that there may be other suitable
methods to achieve the intent of legislation and this guide. Contact the relevant council early in
the design stage if you wish to propose alternative methods.
Councils will give positive consideration to schemes which deviate from the principles outlined
within this guide, if it can be demonstrated that they wholly comply with the design guidance
set out within Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM)
Ecohomes or The Code for Sustainable Homes.
General Considerations
and Information
Waste Policy and Legislation Context
i. EU Legislation
In light of the effects of land-filled biodegradable waste on climate change, the EU Landfill Directive
sets statutory targets for reducing the quantities of land-filled biodegradable municipal waste to:
 75% of 1995 levels by 2010

 50% of 1995 levels by 2013
 35% of 1995 levels by 2020
Failure to meet these targets will incur fines for the relevant councils, which will have to be funded
via the ratepayer. As a result, waste management has changed and will continue to change
dramatically over the next several years.
ii. ‘Towards Resource Management’
The Northern Ireland Waste Management Strategy 2006-2020, ‘Towards Resource Management’2,
published by the Department of the Environment, details six policy strands which should be
pursued in order to achieve the EU targets.
Strand 2, Recycling and Recovery, sets out targets for the percentage of NI waste to be recycled or
composted annually:
 35% by 2010
 40% by 2015
 45% by 2020 3
Over time, the EU targets and waste legislation are likely to necessitate increased segregation of
waste. This will have an impact on operational practices and the number of containers required by
each property to keep various fractions of waste separated.
In light of the impending fines and in order to discourage land-filling and encourage recycling, the
Government is steadily and significantly increasing the tax on land-filled materials.
This guide details how properties need to be designed for effective waste management in light
of climate change considerations and the practical implications of the associated legislation (i.e.
collections of segregated recyclable materials).
2 Available at www.ni-environment.gov.uk/waste/strategyni
3 This is likely to rise to 50%, to reflect the target set by the revised European Waste Framework Directive.
Household Waste and Commercial Waste
Councils are responsible for collecting household waste from the vast majority of dwellings. This is
one of the services funded through the domestic rates.
Owners or managers of non-domestic properties (e.g. businesses, schools, and libraries) are
responsible for arranging the collection and disposal of the waste they generate. In the vast
majority of cases this is a chargeable service. Councils should provide a commercial waste service
to meet this need, but many other private waste collection contractors also provide a commercial
waste service. Thus, the level of service (and price) will be agreed under contract with the selected
commercial waste operator.
Note that, even in the same development, each non-domestic property may be served by a
different commercial waste service.
This guide recognises that there are differences in the household and commercial waste services
and you should also keep these differences in mind when designing the development. Commercial
waste should not be presented for collection as household waste.
Kerbside Collection
Councils in Northern Ireland normally operate a kerbside collection policy for household waste.
This means that waste from dwellings (whether single properties or apartment blocks) should be
presented at the boundary of the property, or at another designated waste collection point, for
convenient collection by the refuse collection crew. All dwellings should be designed with this in
mind.
Councils normally operate an ‘assisted lift’ policy for dwellings where the residents are proven to be
physically unable to present waste containers for themselves. If a dwelling qualifies for an ‘assisted
lift’, the refuse collection crew will collect the containers from their normal storage area.
Commercial waste will be collected from a point agreed between the customer and the commercial
waste operator.
1. Estimating the Weekly

Waste Arisings
1.1. Introduction
This section details how to calculate the volume of waste (in litres) likely to be generated from
a property on a weekly basis. Note, however, that the required storage capacity does not
necessarily equal the weekly waste arisings. You are shown how to calculate the required
storage capacity in Section 2.
1.2. Total Weekly Waste Arisings
Table 1 indicates the typical waste arisings (in litres) on a weekly basis for various types of property.
This volume includes residual and recyclable waste. If your development is not included in
this table, contact the relevant council to agree the appropriate classification or establish a
suitable estimate.
The weekly arisings may change according to seasonal variations, regular or periodic events or
any other factor which may differentiate the property in question from the typical properties
reflected in Table 1. Such factors should be accounted for in calculated weekly waste arisings. It
may be useful to produce a profile of estimated weekly waste arisings for the year, using realistic
assumptions and/or collective knowledge or experience.
The weekly arisings may change according to occupancy level. The figures in Table 1 are based
on realistic or possible (as opposed to minimum) occupancy levels and should be regarded as the
minimum for the purposes of waste storage planning. All further calculations and planning will be
based on these figures.
1.3. Breakdown of Waste Arisings
The following paragraphs provide some basic information regarding how the total weekly waste
arisings might be broken down into individual waste streams. However you should liaise with the
relevant council to establish how the total estimated waste arising should be broken down
into the various fractions.
1.3.1. For dwellings, a recent NI-wide study4 shows that the total waste disposed of via
kerbside collection breaks down roughly (by weight) as follows:
• 30% Residual
• 35% Dry Recyclable
• 35% Organic Waste (25% Food Waste + 10% Garden Waste)
This is an average and it is assumed to account for only a portion of garden waste;
the total arising indicated in Table 1 should not be reduced for dwellings which do
not have gardens.
This is a breakdown by weight, rather than volume. The fractions tend to vary in
form and density, so the volume breakdown is different to the weight breakdown.
Note also that the appropriate breakdown will vary between councils depending
on the services that they provide. Services will vary, depending on factors
such as the technologies currently available to them, economic viability and
environmental benefit.
1.3.2. For non-domestic properties, the breakdown will vary depending on the nature of
the operations involved. Segregation of waste for recycling should be facilitated,
and, in the absence of any other information, the following breakdown should be
assumed:
• 65% Residual
• 35% Dry Recyclable
4 Review of Municipal Waste Component Analysis, (February 2008), DoE NI Environment and Heritage Service
Table 1 - Typical Weekly Waste Arisings5
Weekly Waste
Building Weekly Waste Calculation Example
Arising (litres)
Dwelling (not HMO)
This estimate assumes residential

purposes only; if the dwelling is 70L per bedroom + 30L per
3-bedroom house 240
also used for any non-domestic dwelling
purposes, the relevant arisings
should be separately estimated and
planned for.
100L per bedroom + 60L

House in Multiple Occupation 3-bedroom house 360
per dwelling
Office 50L per employee 10 employees 500
Shopping Centre 10L per sqm of sales area 25,000 sqm sales area 250,000
Fast Food Outlet 5L per sale 45,000 sales per week 225,000
Department Store 10L per sqm of sales area 3,700 sqm 37,000
Restaurant 75L per dining space 30 dining spaces 2,250
4/5 Star Hotel 350L per bedroom 370 bedrooms 129,500
2/3 Star Hotel 250L per bedroom 100 bedrooms 25,000
1 Star Hotel / B&B 150L per bedroom 5 bedrooms 750
Supermarket (small – sales area up

100L per sqm of sales area 800 sqm sales area 80,000
to 1500sqm)
Supermarket (large – sales area
150L per sqm of sales area 2,000 sqm sales area 300,000
more than 1500sqm)
Industrial Unit 5L per sqm of floor area 2,000 sqm floor area 10,000
School 2,500L per 100 pupils 700 pupils 17,500
YOU SHOULD NOW KNOW THE EXPECTED RESIDUAL AND RECYCLABLE WASTE (IN
LITRES) ARISING FROM EACH PROPERTY ON A WEEKLY BASIS
5 Based primarily on British Standard BS5906:2005 Waste management in buildings – Code of practice
2. Calculating the Storage Capacity Required
2.1. Introduction
This section primarily explains how to calculate the storage capacity required for the estimated
waste arisings calculated in Section 1. It also gives guidance on internal waste storage and bulky
household waste storage.
2.2. For any property or collection of properties, note that:
 The required storage capacity depends on the quantity of waste arising and how frequently it
is collected.
 It is possible that the various waste fractions will be collected on different frequencies.
 It may be useful to split the development into its constituent parts and plan the waste storage
for each part separately.
2.3. For mixed-use developments:
Commercial and household waste should be stored separately and the respective required storage
capacities should be calculated separately.
2.4. For dwellings:
2.4.1. (External) Waste Storage
Waste will most likely be collected on a weekly or alternate-weekly basis, or some

combination of the two. Where an alternate-weekly collection6 is implemented for
any fraction of waste, storage capacity should be provided for two weeks’ waste
arisings of that fraction.
Note that the arisings detailed in Table 1 are for total waste output (i.e. all
waste fractions combined). For dwellings, the various types of waste should be
separated into different containers in accordance with the requirements of the
relevant council; this is discussed in detail in Section 3.
Contact the relevant council to determine the collection frequencies for

the various waste fractions collected. Use this information to calculate the
storage capacity required. Note that collection frequencies can vary even
within the same council area.
2.4.2. Internal Waste Storage
Provision should also be made for the segregation of waste within a dwelling, to
simplify transfer to the segregated external waste storage area.
Segregation should be designed into the kitchen (or utility area), as a minimum.
6 See Definitions/Glossary of Terms for explanation.

You should liaise with the relevant council to establish whether an internal
storage area should be designed to accommodate a kerbside box, and the
appropriate dimensions. Note that a kerbside box may be heavy or awkward
to carry over a distance or a complicated route; consider the health and
safety implications of such an arrangement.
2.4.3. Bulky Household Waste
Any individual dwelling should be designed to provide an external area (within

the curtilage of the property) suitable for the temporary storage of bulky
household waste, such as furniture or white goods. This area should be no less
than 2.5m x 1.5m and consideration should be given to access arrangements, such
as door and pathway widths, obstacles and gradients.
Any apartment complex should be designed to provide a designated bulky

household waste storage area. This area should:
• provide at least 10sqm for every 50 households or part thereof;

• be reasonably square, with no dimension being less than 2m; and
• be designed in accordance with the detailed guidance provided in Section 7.
Note that the removal of bulky household waste can be arranged, as necessary, by
contacting the relevant council. There may or may not be a charge for this service.
2.5. For non-domestic properties:
2.5.1. (Main) Waste Storage
Waste will be collected on a frequency agreed under contract with a commercial

waste service. Table 2 shows how the required storage capacity relates to the
collection frequency:
Table 2 – Collection Frequency and Storage Capacity

Collection Frequency Minimum Storage Capacity
Once per week One week’s waste
2 – 5 Days per week Four days’ waste
6 – 7 Days per week Two days’ waste
For properties where the frequency of collection has not been established, capacity should be
provided for a weekly (once per week) collection.
Note that a 7 day collection would not be widely available
The storage capacity should accommodate seasonal variations (this may also be
managed by contracting for extra collections at peak times).
The storage capacity should accommodate expected changes in waste collection

frequencies, systems or methods.
For businesses which are generating food waste, the collection frequency should
be adequate to minimise odours and the risk of vermin.
Each property should have its own storage area or a management system to
ensure that customers are paying only for their own waste.
2.5.2. Temporary Waste Storage
In cases where waste will be temporarily stored in smaller waste containers in the
property before being transferred to the main waste storage area, the temporary
storage arrangements should provide for the various waste fractions to be
appropriately segregated.
2.5.3. Special Considerations
Please note that the detailed information in this guide only applies to general
household and commercial waste. Be aware that specific regulations may apply to
various wastes produced, such as (but not limited to):
• aste Cooking Oil - Caterers such as hotels, restaurants and takeaway

W
outlets should include suitable separate storage provision for waste cooking
oil. Contact the relevant council’s Environmental Health Service for further
guidance.
• aw meat, fish, poultry etc. – Retailers such as butchers, fishmongers and

R
supermarkets should include separate storage provision for waste raw meat,
fish, poultry and other former foodstuffs. Contact the relevant council’s
Environmental Health Service for further guidance.
• linical Waste – Hospitals, health centres, clinics and other healthcare

C
establishments should include separate storage provision for clinical waste.
Contact the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) for
further guidance.
2.6. Possible measures to reduce the required storage capacity
The capacity required can be reduced by use of a compactor; see Appendix III for more information
about compactors and guidelines/limitations on their use.
Some waste materials can be made more manageable by the use of a baler; see Appendix IV for
more information about balers and guidelines/limitations on their use.
Depending on the size of development and the volume of waste expected, the council may wish to
or agree to install one or more Bring Sites. This may reduce the capacity required at the main waste
storage areas. Contact the relevant council to discuss this possibility. See Appendix V for more
information on Bring Sites.
YOU SHOULD NOW KNOW:

• THE STORAGE CAPACITY (IN LITRES) REQUIRED FOR THE VARIOUS WASTE FRACTIONS
• WHAT EXTENT OF INTERNAL OR TEMPORARY STORAGE PROVISION IS REQUIRED
• WHAT SIZE THE BULKY HOUSEHOLD WASTE STORAGE AREA SHOULD BE
3. Number and Types of Waste Containers Required
3.1. Introduction
This section provides guidance on calculating the numbers, types and sizes of waste containers
that should be accommodated. Refer to Appendix II for the capacities and typical dimensions of
standard waste containers.
Waste containers can normally be purchased through the relevant council or prospective
commercial waste contractor. If you intend to purchase containers from any other source, you
should liaise with the council or commercial waste service to ensure that the proposed containers
are satisfactory in terms of:
 quality;
 design; and
 suitability for the application.
3.2. Dwellings
For any dwelling the waste will have to be separated into at least two and possibly three or more
fractions, each fraction to be stored separately in dedicated receptacles.
The typical waste container for houses or bungalows is the 240L wheeled bin. Kerbside boxes
(typically 55L capacity) are used in some areas for recyclable waste.
Large wheeled containers, such as Euro Bins, are often used for flatted accommodation. Where
Euro Bins are to be used, a Waste Management Plan should be designed and agreed with the
council. See Appendix IX for further information on Waste Management Plans.
Contact the relevant council to establish the different waste fractions that should be stored
separately, and the appropriate receptacles. Note that this may vary from location to
location even within the same council area.
Note that the capacity/space to be allocated at design stage is based on the potential
occupancy of a dwelling. The provision of bins by a council is, however, based on the actual
occupancy.
3.3. Non-domestic properties
There is increasing environmental and cost pressure on businesses, schools and other organisations
to recycle as much waste as possible. Provision should be made for the segregation of waste as:
 Space is needed for items which should not be land-filled (e.g. fluorescent tubes,
refrigerators)
 Legislation demands pre-treatment of all waste before landfilling; segregation of waste
for recycling qualifies as a pre-treatment
 Land-filling will continue to become significantly more expensive and recycling is
expected to become increasingly economical
 Regardless of legislation, recycling is a more environmentally-responsible practice and
should be facilitated
The types of waste container for non-domestic properties will depend on the commercial waste
contractor. In the absence of any other information, you should assume that 1100L Euro Bins will
be used.
YOU SHOULD NOW KNOW THE NUMBERS, TYPES AND SIZES OF WASTE CONTAINERS
THAT YOUR WASTE STORAGE AREA SHOULD BE ABLE TO ACCOMMODATE
4. Calculating the Size of a Waste Storage Area
4.1. Introduction
The waste storage area should be large enough to allow each waste container to be individually
accessed and removed without moving any of the others. This is to ensure that:
 Residents/users can conveniently use any waste container at any time, without having
to swap them around. Where this is not the case, users may be tempted to simply dump
the waste into or around the storage area once the accessible containers are filled,
rather than rearrange them.
 Waste containers can be conveniently removed as necessary for emptyingc.
The guidance in this section assumes that the dimensions of the waste containers to be used
are no greater than the typical dimensions detailed in Appendix II. Liaise with the council or
prospective commercial waste contractor to confirm the dimensions of the containers to be
used, and increase the area calculations accordingly, if necessary.
4.2. Calculations
Tables 3.1 to 3.4 show how to calculate the storage space required, for any given number of
standard containers.
Note that the waste storage area for use by a single dwelling should never be less than 1.8m x
1.2mc. This area is sufficient to accommodate three 240L bins.
The tables distinguish between situations where a waste storage area is ‘enclosed’ and ‘not
enclosed’. However, the ‘not enclosed’ calculations may be used if the doors to the waste storage
area can be opened to the extent that the area is effectively not enclosed.
The tables assume either a single row layout (containers in a row beside one another, with the lids
opening at the front – see Figure 1) or an opposing rows layout (two single rows, as previously
described, facing one another – see Figure 2). Other layouts may be used so long as all relevant
design requirements are adhered to. Liaise with the relevant council to ensure that any
alternative layout and the corresponding calculated area is satisfactory.
Where a mixture of container sizes will be used in the same storage area, apply the relevant areas/
calculations while adhering to all other relevant design requirements. Liaise with the relevant
council to ensure that the calculated area is satisfactory.
If containers are stackable (e.g. plastic boxes), it may be acceptable for the storage area to be
calculated accordingly.
c In order to ensure compliance with paragraph J2(1)(c) of the Building Regulations (NI) 2000 (as amended); see Appendix XII.
Figure 1: Wheeled Bins in Single Row Figure 2: Wheeled Bins in Opposing Rows
Layout (not to scale) Layout (not to scale)
Tables 4.1 and 4.2 show the required dimensions, and the corresponding area, for an enclosed
storage area housing up to 40 containers, using the calculations shown in Tables 3.1 to 3.4.
If the container size you intend to use is not covered by Tables 3.1 to 3.4, calculate the required area
according to the principles detailed and exercised throughout Section 4. Liaise with the relevant
council to ensure that the calculated area is satisfactory.
YOU SHOULD NOW KNOW WHAT SIZE THE WASTE STORAGE AREA NEEDS TO BE
TABLE 3.1 - Container Capacity 240L or Less
Minimum Storage Area Dimensions (m)
No. of Containers Single Row Layout Opposing Rows Layout
Not Enclosed Enclosed Not Enclosed Enclosed
1-3 1.2 x 1.8 2.0 x 1.8 2.8 x 1.2 2.8 x 1.2
4 1.2 x 2.4 2.0 x 2.4 2.8 x 1.2 2.8 x 1.2
Single Row Layout - For each

additional container add at least
1.2 x 0.6 2.0 x 0.6
the following discrete area while
maintaining a rectangular area overall:
Single Row Layout (Not Enclosed) -

Minimum additional clearance space 0.8 x row length
required to front of row:
Opposing Rows Layout - For each

additional container or pair of
containers add at least the following 2.8 x 0.6 2.8 x 0.6
discrete area while maintaining a
rectangular area overall:
1.2 x 3.0 (plus

an adjacent
Thus, for example, 5 bins would need a usable clear
2.0 x 3.0 2.8 x 1.8 2.8 x 1.8
dedicated storage area of at least: area of 0.8 x 3.0
to make a total
area of 2.0 x 3.0)
Minimum Door/Gate Clearance 1.0 1.0
Minimum Operating Corridor (3 or

more containers in a row; 2 or more 1.2
containers opposing)
TABLE 3.2 - Container Capacity 360L
1-3 1.4 x 2.1 2.4 x 2.1 3.3 x 1.4 3.3 x 1.4
4 1.4 x 2.8 2.4 x 2.8 3.3 x 1.4 3.3 x 1.4
Single Row Layout - For each

additional container add at least
1.4 x 0.7 2.4 x 0.7
the following discrete area while
maintaining a rectangular area overall:

Minimum additional clearance space 1.0 x row length

additional container or pair of
containers add at least the following 3.3 x 0.7 3.3 x 0.7
1.4 x 3.5 (plus an

adjacent usable
Thus, for example, 5 bins would need a clear area of 1.0
2.4 x 3.5 3.3 x 2.1 3.3 x 2.1
dedicated storage area of at least: x 3.5 to make a
total area of 2.4
x 3.5)
Minimum Operating Corridor (3 or

more containers in a row; 2 or more 1.5
containers opposing)
1-2 1.4 x 3.0 2.2 x 3.0 3.0 x 1.5 3.0 x 1.5
3 1.4 x 4.5 2.2 x 4.5

3.0 x 3.0 3.0 x 3.0
4 1.4 x 6.0 2.2 x 6.0
Single Row Layout - For each additional

container add at least the following
1.4 x 1.5 2.2 x 1.5

0.8 x row
Minimum additional clearance space
length

additional container or pair of containers
add at least the following discrete area 3.0 x 1.5 3.0 x 1.5
while maintaining a rectangular area
overall:
1.4 x 7.5 (plus

an adjacent
usable clear
Thus, for example, 5 bins would need a
area of 0.8 x 2.2 x 7.5 3.0 x 4.5 3.0 x 4.5
dedicated storage area of at least:
7.5 to make a
total area of 2.2
x 7.5)
Minimum Operating Corridor (2 or more

containers in a row; 2 or more containers 1.3
opposing)
1-2 1.8 x 3.2 3.1 x 3.2 4.4 x 1.6 4.4 x 1.6
3 1.8 x 4.8 3.1 x 4.8

4.4 x 3.2 4.4 x 3.2
4 1.8 x 6.4 3.1 x 6.4
Single Row Layout - For each additional

container add at least the following
1.8 x 1.6 3.1 x 1.6

1.3 x row
Minimum additional clearance space
length

additional container or pair of containers
add at least the following discrete area 4.4 x 1.6 4.4 x 1.6
while maintaining a rectangular area
overall:
1.8 x 8.0 (plus

an adjacent
usable clear
Thus, for example, 5 bins would need a
area of 1.3 x 3.1 x 8.0 4.4 x 4.8 4.4 x 4.8
dedicated storage area of at least:
8.0 to make a
total area of 3.1
x 8.0)
Minimum Operating Corridor (2 or more

containers in a row; 2 or more containers 1.8
opposing)
TABLE 4.1 – Single Row Layout (Enclosed)
240L or Less 360L 660L 1100L

No. of
Containers
Dimensions Area Dimensions Area Dimensions Area Dimensions Area
(m) (m2) (m) (m2) (m) (m2) (m) (m2)
1 2.0 x 1.8 3.6 2.4 x 2.1 5.0 2.2 x 3.0 6.6 3.1 x 3.2 9.9
2 2.0 x 1.8 3.6 2.4 x 2.1 5.0 2.2 x 3.0 6.6 3.1 x 3.2 9.9
3 2.0 x 1.8 3.6 2.4 x 2.1 5.0 2.2 x 4.5 9.9 3.1 x 4.8 14.9
4 2.0 x 2.4 4.8 2.4 x 2.8 6.7 2.2 x 6.0 13.2 3.1 x 6.4 19.8
5 2.0 x 3.0 6.0 2.4 x 3.5 8.4 2.2 x 7.5 16.5 3.1 x 8.0 24.8
6 2.0 x 3.6 7.2 2.4 x 4.2 10.1 2.2 x 9.0 19.8 3.1 x 9.6 29.8
7 2.0 x 4.2 8.4 2.4 x 4.9 11.8 2.2 x 10.5 23.1 3.1 x 11.2 34.7
8 2.0 x 4.8 9.6 2.4 x 5.6 13.4 2.2 x 12.0 26.4 3.1 x 12.8 39.7
9 2.0 x 5.4 10.8 2.4 x 6.3 15.1 2.2 x 13.5 29.7 3.1 x 14.4 44.6
10 2.0 x 6.0 12.0 2.4 x 7.0 16.8 2.2 x 15.0 33.0 3.1 x 16.0 49.6
11 2.0 x 6.6 13.2 2.4 x 7.7 18.5 2.2 x 16.5 36.3 3.1 x 17.6 54.6
12 2.0 x 7.2 14.4 2.4 x 8.4 20.2 2.2 x 18.0 39.6 3.1 x 19.2 59.5
13 2.0 x 7.8 15.6 2.4 x 9.1 21.8 2.2 x 19.5 42.9 3.1 x 20.8 64.5
14 2.0 x 8.4 16.8 2.4 x 9.8 23.5 2.2 x 21.0 46.2 3.1 x 22.4 69.4
15 2.0 x 9.0 18.0 2.4 x 10.5 25.2 2.2 x 22.5 49.5 3.1 x 24.0 74.4
16 2.0 x 9.6 19.2 2.4 x 11.2 26.9 2.2 x 24.0 52.8 3.1 x 25.6 79.4
17 2.0 x 10.2 20.4 2.4 x 11.9 28.6 2.2 x 25.5 56.1 3.1 x 27.2 84.3
18 2.0 x 10.8 21.6 2.4 x 12.6 30.2 2.2 x 27.0 59.4 3.1 x 28.8 89.3
19 2.0 x 11.4 22.8 2.4 x 13.3 31.9 2.2 x 28.5 62.7 3.1 x 30.4 94.2
20 2.0 x 12.0 24.0 2.4 x 14.0 33.6 2.2 x 30.0 66.0 3.1 x 32.0 99.2
21 2.0 x 12.6 25.2 2.4 x 14.7 35.3 2.2 x 31.5 69.3 3.1 x 33.6 104.2
22 2.0 x 13.2 26.4 2.4 x 15.4 37.0 2.2 x 33.0 72.6 3.1 x 35.2 109.1
23 2.0 x 13.8 27.6 2.4 x 16.1 38.6 2.2 x 34.5 75.9 3.1 x 36.8 114.1
24 2.0 x 14.4 28.8 2.4 x 16.8 40.3 2.2 x 36.0 79.2 3.1 x 38.4 119.0
25 2.0 x 15.0 30.0 2.4 x 17.5 42.0 2.2 x 37.5 82.5 3.1 x 40.0 124.0
26 2.0 x 15.6 31.2 2.4 x 18.2 43.7 2.2 x 39.0 85.8 3.1 x 41.6 129.0
27 2.0 x 16.2 32.4 2.4 x 18.9 45.4 2.2 x 40.5 89.1 3.1 x 43.2 133.9
28 2.0 x 16.8 33.6 2.4 x 19.6 47.0 2.2 x 42.0 92.4 3.1 x 44.8 138.9
29 2.0 x 17.4 34.8 2.4 x 20.3 48.7 2.2 x 43.5 95.7 3.1 x 46.4 143.8
30 2.0 x 18.0 36.0 2.4 x 21.0 50.4 2.2 x 45.0 99.0 3.1 x 48.0 148.8
31 2.0 x 18.6 37.2 2.4 x 21.7 52.1 2.2 x 46.5 102.3 3.1 x 49.6 153.8
32 2.0 x 19.2 38.4 2.4 x 22.4 53.8 2.2 x 48.0 105.6 3.1 x 51.2 158.7
33 2.0 x 19.8 39.6 2.4 x 23.1 55.4 2.2 x 49.5 108.9 3.1 x 52.8 163.7
34 2.0 x 20.4 40.8 2.4 x 23.8 57.1 2.2 x 51.0 112.2 3.1 x 54.4 168.6
35 2.0 x 21.0 42.0 2.4 x 24.5 58.8 2.2 x 52.5 115.5 3.1 x 56.0 173.6
36 2.0 x 21.6 43.2 2.4 x 25.2 60.5 2.2 x 54.0 118.8 3.1 x 57.6 178.6
37 2.0 x 22.2 44.4 2.4 x 25.9 62.2 2.2 x 55.5 122.1 3.1 x 59.2 183.5
38 2.0 x 22.8 45.6 2.4 x 26.6 63.8 2.2 x 57.0 125.4 3.1 x 60.8 188.5
39 2.0 x 23.4 46.8 2.4 x 27.3 65.5 2.2 x 58.5 128.7 3.1 x 62.4 193.4
40 2.0 x 24.0 48.0 2.4 x 28.0 67.2 2.2 x 60.0 132.0 3.1 x 64.0 198.4
TABLE 4.2 – Opposing Rows Layout (Enclosed)
240L or Less 360L 660L 1100L

No. of
Containers
Dimensions Area Dimensions Area Dimensions Area Dimensions Area
(m) (m2) (m) (m2) (m) (m2) (m) (m2)
1 2.8 x 1.2 3.4 3.3 x 1.4 4.6 3.0 x 1.5 4.5 4.4 x 1.6 7.0
2 2.8 x 1.2 3.4 3.3 x 1.4 4.6 3.0 x 1.5 4.5 4.4 x 1.6 7.0
3 2.8 x 1.2 3.4 3.3 x 1.4 4.6 3.0 x 3.0 9.0 4.4 x 3.2 14.1
4 2.8 x 1.2 3.4 3.3 x 1.4 4.6 3.0 x 3.0 9.0 4.4 x 3.2 14.1
5 2.8 x 1.8 5.0 3.3 x 2.1 6.9 3.0 x 4.5 13.5 4.4 x 4.8 21.1
6 2.8 x 1.8 5.0 3.3 x 2.1 6.9 3.0 x 4.5 13.5 4.4 x 4.8 21.1
7 2.8 x 2.4 6.7 3.3 x 2.8 9.2 3.0 x 6.0 18.0 4.4 x 6.4 28.2
8 2.8 x 2.4 6.7 3.3 x 2.8 9.2 3.0 x 6.0 18.0 4.4 x 6.4 28.2
9 2.8 x 3.0 8.4 3.3 x 3.5 11.6 3.0 x 7.5 22.5 4.4 x 8.0 35.2
10 2.8 x 3.0 8.4 3.3 x 3.5 11.6 3.0 x 7.5 22.5 4.4 x 8.0 35.2
11 2.8 x 3.6 10.1 3.3 x 4.2 13.9 3.0 x 9.0 27.0 4.4 x 9.6 42.2
12 2.8 x 3.6 10.1 3.3 x 4.2 13.9 3.0 x 9.0 27.0 4.4 x 9.6 42.2
13 2.8 x 4.2 11.8 3.3 x 4.9 16.2 3.0 x 10.5 31.5 4.4 x 11.2 49.3
14 2.8 x 4.2 11.8 3.3 x 4.9 16.2 3.0 x 10.5 31.5 4.4 x 11.2 49.3
15 2.8 x 4.8 13.4 3.3 x 5.6 18.5 3.0 x 12.0 36.0 4.4 x 12.8 56.3
16 2.8 x 4.8 13.4 3.3 x 5.6 18.5 3.0 x 12.0 36.0 4.4 x 12.8 56.3
17 2.8 x 5.4 15.1 3.3 x 6.3 20.8 3.0 x 13.5 40.5 4.4 x 14.4 63.4
18 2.8 x 5.4 15.1 3.3 x 6.3 20.8 3.0 x 13.5 40.5 4.4 x 14.4 63.4
19 2.8 x 6.0 16.8 3.3 x 7.0 23.1 3.0 x 15.0 45.0 4.4 x 16.0 70.4
20 2.8 x 6.0 16.8 3.3 x 7.0 23.1 3.0 x 15.0 45.0 4.4 x 16.0 70.4
21 2.8 x 6.6 18.5 3.3 x 7.7 25.4 3.0 x 16.5 49.5 4.4 x 17.6 77.4
22 2.8 x 6.6 18.5 3.3 x 7.7 25.4 3.0 x 16.5 49.5 4.4 x 17.6 77.4
23 2.8 x 7.2 20.2 3.3 x 8.4 27.7 3.0 x 18.0 54.0 4.4 x 19.2 84.5
24 2.8 x 7.2 20.2 3.3 x 8.4 27.7 3.0 x 18.0 54.0 4.4 x 19.2 84.5
25 2.8 x 7.8 21.8 3.3 x 9.1 30.0 3.0 x 19.5 58.5 4.4 x 20.8 91.5
26 2.8 x 7.8 21.8 3.3 x 9.1 30.0 3.0 x 19.5 58.5 4.4 x 20.8 91.5
27 2.8 x 8.4 23.5 3.3 x 9.8 32.3 3.0 x 21.0 63.0 4.4 x 22.4 98.6
28 2.8 x 8.4 23.5 3.3 x 9.8 32.3 3.0 x 21.0 63.0 4.4 x 22.4 98.6
29 2.8 x 9.0 25.2 3.3 x 10.5 34.7 3.0 x 22.5 67.5 4.4 x 24.0 105.6
30 2.8 x 9.0 25.2 3.3 x 10.5 34.7 3.0 x 22.5 67.5 4.4 x 24.0 105.6
31 2.8 x 9.6 26.9 3.3 x 11.2 37.0 3.0 x 24.0 72.0 4.4 x 25.6 112.6
32 2.8 x 9.6 26.9 3.3 x 11.2 37.0 3.0 x 24.0 72.0 4.4 x 25.6 112.6
33 2.8 x 10.2 28.6 3.3 x 11.9 39.3 3.0 x 25.5 76.5 4.4 x 27.2 119.7
34 2.8 x 10.2 28.6 3.3 x 11.9 39.3 3.0 x 25.5 76.5 4.4 x 27.2 119.7
35 2.8 x 10.8 30.2 3.3 x 12.6 41.6 3.0 x 27.0 81.0 4.4 x 28.8 126.7
36 2.8 x 10.8 30.2 3.3 x 12.6 41.6 3.0 x 27.0 81.0 4.4 x 28.8 126.7
37 2.8 x 11.4 31.9 3.3 x 13.3 43.9 3.0 x 28.5 85.5 4.4 x 30.4 133.8
38 2.8 x 11.4 31.9 3.3 x 13.3 43.9 3.0 x 28.5 85.5 4.4 x 30.4 133.8
39 2.8 x 12.0 33.6 3.3 x 14.0 46.2 3.0 x 30.0 90.0 4.4 x 32.0 140.8
40 2.8 x 12.0 33.6 3.3 x 14.0 46.2 3.0 x 30.0 90.0 4.4 x 32.0 140.8
5. Siting and Design Considerations for a Waste Storage Area
5.1. General principles
 Waste should not be stored in an area that is plainly visible from the main public route
past a property.
 Waste should not be stored on a public highway or in any public area.
 The waste storage area should not obstruct sight lines for pedestrians, drivers or
cyclistsa.
 The waste storage area should not obstruct any utility service points.
 The waste storage area should not obstruct access paths or property entrances/ exits.
 The waste storage area should not obstruct fire exitsa.
 The waste storage area should be sited and designed to minimise the fire hazard and
the risk of arson7; in particular, it should:
• be sited at a safe distance from potential ignition sourcesa;
• be sited at a safe distance from the property, windows and boundary fences, to
prevent the spread of firea; and
• be designed such that waste containers cannot be removed and used for starting
a fire elsewhere.
 The waste storage area should be sited in such a way as to ensure it does not make it
easy to gain illegal access to the property (e.g. allowing criminals to climb on bins to
enter windows).
 The waste storage area should be sited away from windows and ventilators to prevent
nuisance to occupants/users from odour and noisea.
 The waste storage area should be in a shaded area to reduce the potential for odours.
5.2. The waste storage area for use only by a single dwelling should:
 be sized in accordance with the guidance in Sections 1-4c;

 have a hard, washable, impervious and free-draining surfacec;
 have adequate natural and/or artificial lighting;
 not obstruct any means of escapea;
 be in the open air or have good natural ventilationa; and
 be designed for use by older persons and persons with disabilities.
7 A full range of detailed fire safety guides for various types of property is available at www.communities.gov.uk/fire/firesafety/fire-
safetylaw/aboutguides
a In order to ensure compliance with paragraph J2(1)(a) of the Building Regulations (NI) 2000 (as amended); see Appendix XII.
5.3. A communal waste storage area for dwellings should:
 be sized in accordance with the guidance in Sections 1-4c;

 be in the open air or have good natural ventilationa;
 be designed for use by older persons and persons with disabilities;
 be suitably enclosed within a yard or purpose-built enclosure for the sake of
appearances and to prevent nuisance from spread of rubbish, odour and noise;
• the enclosure should be constructed and finished in keeping with the
surroundings;
• if not enclosed, the waste storage area should be screened off, using boundary
walls, fencing or planting;
 be designed such that store doors/gates do not open over the public highway;
 have consideration given to whether doors/gates should open outwards to minimise
obstruction;
 have a facility to hold doors/gates open (other than fire doors) while the bins are in use
or being moved in or out of the store;
 be included in the site’s maintenance and cleansing regime;
 have a floor which is constructed and finished in materials that are impervious and
easily kept cleanc;
 have a convenient water supply for washing in order to maintain hygiene standards;
 have the floor laid to a fall with suitable drainage (e.g. trapped gully);
 have adequate natural and/or artificial lighting (artificial lighting, switches and any
other electrical fitting should be sealed to protect from water ingress while the store is
being washed);
 be covered by any CCTV system which is installed in the development;
 not obstruct any means of escape (particularly fire exits) or access to fire alarm points or
fire extinguishersa;
 be designed and/or managed such that access to the storage area is easy for residents
but difficult for non-residents; and
 be designed such that no-one can hide in the store from anyone entering.
Consideration should be given to:
• wall heights (where the storage area has no roof );
• internal layout of bins;
• fitting windows/mesh to doors/gates to provide visibility of the inside; and
• placing of the light switch (if any).
5.3.1. Where the store is integral to a building, access should be designed and/or
controlled so as to ensure that:
 non-residents cannot enter the main building via the store; and
 the waste containers can be moved easily between the store and the
collection point (in accordance with the guidance given in Section 6)d.
5.3.2. The store should have a rubber buffer fitted internally to the walls and doors /
gates to prevent damage and noise. Ensure that any extra area required for the
provision of the buffer is factored into the size of the store.
5.3.3. If the store has a roof, it should be high enough to allow:
 users to stand upright in the store; and

 waste container lids to be fully opened.
5.3.4. The store should incorporate clear signage and markings to:
 identify the bin stores;

 state which properties are entitled to use each store;
 state that the bin store should not be used for any other purpose;
 state that all waste should be placed in the containers;
 state which containers should be used for the various types of waste;
 state the arrangements for bulky household waste;
 indicate the location of the nearest Household Waste Recycling Centre
(contact the relevant council for details); and
 indicate the location of the nearest ‘Bring Site’ (contact the relevant council
for details).
d In order to ensure compliance with paragraph J2(1)(d) of the Building Regulations (NI) 2000 (as amended); see Appendix XII.
5.4. The waste storage area for a non-domestic property should:
 be sized in accordance with the guidance in Sections 1-4 c;

 be in the open air or have good natural ventilationa;
 be suitably enclosed within a yard or purpose-built enclosure for the sake
of appearances and to prevent nuisance from spread of rubbish, odour and
noise;
• the enclosure should be constructed and finished in a manner that is in
keeping with the surroundings);
• if not enclosed, the waste storage area should be screened off, using
boundary walls, fencing or planting;
 be designed such that store doors/gates do not open over the public
highway;
 have consideration given to whether doors should open outwards to
minimise obstruction;
 have a facility to hold doors/gates open (other than fire doors) while the bins
are in use or being moved in or out of the store;
 be included in the site’s maintenance and cleansing regime;
 have a floor which is constructed and finished in materials that are
impervious and easily kept cleanc;
 have a convenient water supply for washing in order to maintain hygiene
standards;
 have the floor laid to a fall with suitable drainage (e.g. trapped gully);
 have adequate natural and/or artificial lighting (artificial lighting, switches
and any other electrical fitting should be sealed to protect from water
ingress while the store is being washed);
 not obstruct any means of escape (particularly fire exits) or access to fire
alarm points or fire extinguishersa;
 be designed and/or managed such that access to the storage area is only
possible for legitimate users; and
• wall heights (where the storage area has no roof );
• internal layout of bins;
• fitting windows/mesh to doors/gates to provide visibility of the inside;
and
• placing of the light switch (if any).
 no-one other than legitimate users can enter the main building via the store;
and
 the bins can be moved easily between the store and the collection point (in
accordance with the guidance given in Section 6)d.
5.4.2. The store should have a rubber buffer fitted internally to the walls and gates/doors
to prevent damage and noise (any extra area required for the provision of the
buffer should be factored into the size of the store).
5.4.3. If the store has a roof, it should be high enough to allow:
 users to stand upright in the store; and

 waste container lids to be fully opened.
5.4.4. The store should incorporate clear signage and markings to:
 identify the waste stores;

 state which property is entitled to use each store;
 state that the waste store should not be used for any other purpose;
 state that all waste should be placed in the containers; and
 state which containers should be used for the various types of waste.
5.4.5. Note that additional consideration should be given to waste storage in non-
domestic properties where waste is more likely to present a health risk, for
example:
 food premises (contact the relevant council’s Environmental Health Service

for further guidance):
• waste storage in food premises should be within a secure open area
external to the premises (but within the property boundary); and
• where the waste store is internal to the food premises, it should be an
enclosed ventilated store situated away from food rooms.
 healthcare premises (contact the Health and Safety Executive for Northern
Ireland (HSENI) for further guidance).
6. Access Considerations for a Waste Storage Area
This section outlines the minimum requirements that should be observed to ensure that waste
containers can be transported manually without the use of mechanical equipment (such as a
tractor and trailer).
These requirements should be observed, even if the use of mechanical equipment is planned, as
this will allow manual transport of containers to proceed in the event of mechanical breakdown.
The only exception is in the case where the waste storage area is in a basement. If mechanical
equipment is to be used to transport the waste containers, the gradient requirement may be
relaxed (although all relevant legislation should be observed).
When mechanical equipment is to be used, consideration should be given to whether any of these
requirements need to be enhanced. For example (but not limited to):
 access and parking arrangements for the equipment (e.g. path widths); and
 specification of the laden weight that pathways can withstand.
6.2. Dwellings
6.2.1. The route from the property to the waste storage area should be:
 no more than 30mb; and

 easily negotiable for anyone depositing wasteb.
6.2.2. The route from the waste storage area to the waste collection point should:
 not be via a dwelling or any other building, other than a garage, carport or
other open covered spaceb;
 be no more than 25m, unless agreed with the council;
 avoid vehicular traffic;
 avoid car parking areas or other obstacles;
 have a firm base;
 be rendered with a smooth continuous finish;
 be free of steps or kerbs (a dropped kerb or cross-over should be used where
necessary);
 conform to the guidelines given for gradients in Appendix I; and
 be a minimum width of:
• 1.0m where containers of 360L capacity or less are used;
• 1.5m where 660L Euro Bins are used; and
• 2.0m where 1100L Euro Bins are used.
6.2.3. For a dwelling where Euro Bins are used, a Waste Management Plan should
be approved with the council to ensure that waste containers can and will be
presented at the waste collection point. See Appendix IX for more information on
Waste Management Plans.
6.2.4. For a dwelling where the waste store is to be in a basement area:
 a Waste Management Plan should be approved with the council to ensure

that waste containers can and will be presented at the waste collection
point.
 if a goods lift is to be used, consider how many waste containers are to be
accommodated and make sure that:
• the lift is large enough to accommodate the waste container(s) and the
porter; and
• the lift doors are sized appropriately for the waste container(s).
b In order to ensure compliance with paragraph J2(1)(b) of the Building Regulations (NI) 2000 (as amended); see Appendix XII.
6.3. Non-domestic properties
6.3.1. The route from the property to the waste storage area should:
 be easily negotiable for anyone depositing wasteb;

 avoid potential ignition sources; and
 be of a distance and design which takes account of factors such as:
• the type of waste;
• the volume of waste;
• the weight of the waste; and
• how frequently waste will need to be transported to the waste storage
area.
6.3.2. The route from the waste storage area to the waste collection point should:
 be of a distance and designd which takes account of factors such as:
• the type of waste;

• the volume of waste;
• the weight of the waste; and
• how frequently waste will need to be transported to the waste
collection point;
 avoid potential ignition sources;
necessary);
• 2.0m where Euro Bins are used.
b In order to ensure compliance with paragraph J2(1)(b) of the Building Regulations (NI) 2000 (as amended); see Appendix XII.
6.3.3. For a non-domestic property where the bin store is to be in a basement area:
 a Waste Management Plan should be designed to ensure that waste

containers can and will be presented at the waste collection point (see
Appendix IX for more information on Waste Management Plans); and
 if a goods lift is to be used, consider how many waste containers are to be
accommodated and make sure that:
• the lift is large enough to accommodate the waste container(s) and the
porter; and
• the lift doors are sized appropriately for the waste container(s).
7. Siting, Design and Access Considerations for a Bulky

Household Waste Storage Area for Apartments
7.1. Introduction
This section provides design guidance for bulky household waste storage areas for apartment
accommodation.
Note that the removal of bulky household waste can be arranged, as necessary, by contacting the
relevant council. Thought should be given to whether this should be done by individual residents
or as part of a building management service. There may or may not be a charge for the collection
of bulky household waste.
Residents should be advised of how to dispose of their bulky household waste in the information
given to them when taking residence in the apartments.
7.2. Detailed design of bulky household waste storage areas for apartments
7.2.1. A bulky household waste storage area should:
 be sized in accordance with the guidance in Section 2;

 be suitably enclosed within a yard or purpose-built enclosure for the sake
of appearances, to prevent nuisance from noise and to prevent items from
becoming waterlogged;
• the enclosure should be constructed and finished in keeping with the
surroundings;
• if not enclosed, the bulky household waste storage area should be
screened off, using boundary walls, fencing or planting;
 have access clearance at least 2m wide;
 have doors which open outwards to minimise obstruction;
 be designed such that the doors do not open over the public highway;
 have a facility to hold doors/gates open (other than fire doors) while items
are being moved in or out of the store;
 have a floor which is constructed and finished in materials that are
impervious and easily kept clean;
 have adequate natural and/or artificial lighting;
 be designed to minimise the fire hazard and the risk of arson; in particular,
the bulky household waste storage area should:
• not obstruct any means of escape (particularly fire exits);
• be sited at a safe distance from potential ignition sources;
• be sited at a safe distance from the property, windows and boundary
fences, to prevent the spread of fire; and
• be designed such that waste items cannot be removed and used to
start a fire elsewhere.
 be designed and/or managed such that access to the storage area is easy for
residents but difficult for non-residents; and
• internal layout;
• fitting windows/mesh on doors/gates to provide visibility of the inside;
and
• careful placing of the light switch (if any).
7.2.2. The store should be included in the site’s maintenance and cleansing regime.
7.2.3. The store should be designed to ensure that items do not become waterlogged
(making them too heavy for refuse collection crews to remove). Consideration
should be given to:
 roofing - the roof should be high enough to accommodate tall items and
allow users to stand upright;
 whether or not the store should be enclosed (enclosed is preferable) and to
what extent; and
 drainage.
7.2.4. There should be clear signage and markings to:
 identify the store;

 state which properties are entitled to use the store;
 state that the bulky household waste store should not be used for any other
purpose; and
 indicate the location of the nearest Household Waste Recycling Centre.
 non-residents cannot enter the main building via the store; and
 bulky items can be moved easily between the store and the collection point.
7.2.6. The route from the property to the bulky household waste storage area should be:
 no more than 30m; and

 easily negotiable for anyone depositing items.
7.2.7. The route from the bulky household waste storage area to the waste collection
point should:
 not be via a dwelling or any other building, other than a garage, carport or
other open covered space;
 be no more than 25m;
necessary);
 be a minimum width of 2m;
 be rendered with a smooth continuous finish; and
 conform to the guidelines given for gradients in Appendix I.
7.2.8. When a bulky household waste store is sited in a basement area:
 if a goods lift is to be used, make sure that;

• the lift is large enough to accommodate bulky waste items and the
porter; and
• the lift doors are sized appropriately for the waste items.
7.2.9. In all cases a Waste Management Plan should be approved with the council to
ensure that a suitable system is in place for the disposal of bulky household waste
and that residents are fully informed of it. See Appendix IX for more information
on Waste Management Plans.
8. Siting, Design and Access Considerations for the

Waste Collection Point
The waste collection point should be of sufficient area to accommodate all bins/ containers/
receptacles.
The waste collection point should be such that waste can be presented without blocking vehicular
or pedestrian access.
Note that heavy vehicles may not be acceptable in environmentally sensitive locations such as
conservation areas or in the vicinity of listed buildings.
If a waste storage area or bulky household waste storage area is suitably sited and designed, it is
possible that it may be adopted as the waste collection point. Liaise with the relevant council to
discuss the suitability of the waste storage area or bulky household waste storage area being
adopted as the waste collection point.
Note that where the waste storage area or bulky household waste storage area is adopted as the
waste collection point, it remains the responsibility of residents or the site management to provide
access to the storage area for collection.
8.2. For dwellings:
8.2.1. The waste collection point should be agreed with the council, and be:
 at or outside the boundary of any individual property;
• for large private developments, apartment complexes, etc., liaise with

the relevant council to establish whether the waste collection point
may be sited within the bounds of the development.
 no more than 3m from the nearest suitable access point for the refuse
collection vehicle. RCV access considerations are detailed in Appendix VI.
8.2.2. The path between the waste collection point and the nearest RCV access should:

necessary);
8.3. For non-domestic properties:
The waste collection point will be agreed with the commercial waste contractor. However,
designing a waste collection point according to the following guidelines will make agreement
easier.
The waste collection point should be no more than 3m from the nearest suitable access point for
the refuse collection vehicle. RCV access considerations are detailed in Appendix VI.
The path between the waste collection point and the nearest RCV access should:

 be free of steps or kerbs (a dropped kerb or cross-over should be used where necessary);
List of Consultees
The following organisations have been consulted with regard to the content of this guide:
 Northern Ireland’s 26 councils

 Northern Ireland’s 3 Waste Management Partnerships (arc21; North West Region Waste
Management Group; Southern Waste Management Partnership)
 DoE Northern Ireland Environment Agency
 DFP Building Regulations Unit
 DoE Planning Service
 DSD Housing Division
 Northern Ireland Housing Executive
 DRD Roads Service
 Northern Ireland Water
 Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service
 Northern Ireland Building Regulations Advisory Committee (NIBRAC)
 Northern Ireland Chief Environmental Health Officers Group (CEHOG)
 Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP)
 Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations
 Technical Advisers Group (TAG)
Definitions / Glossary of Terms
NOTE: Although the following definitions are intended for use only in relation to the guidance
given in this document, they are also consistent with the intent of relevant legislation.
Alternate-Weekly Collection (AWC)

A waste collection frequency where one or more waste fractions are collected on alternate weeks
from a given home. For example, residual waste may be collected on one week and recyclable
waste on the other. Or recyclable waste may be collected on an alternate-weekly basis (i.e. every
second week) and residual waste on a weekly basis.
Assisted Lift
A service provided by a council to a dwelling where the residents are proven to be physically unable
to bring their waste containers to the kerbside. If a property qualifies for an assisted lift (under the
terms of the relevant council’s assisted lift policy) the refuse collection crew will collect and return
waste containers to the waste storage area.
Biodegradable Waste
Waste, typically originating from plant or animal sources, which may be broken down by other
living organisms (this process generates gases which are contributing to climate change.)
Bring Site
A small site provided and managed by the council where the public can deposit a range of
recyclable and/or re-usable items.
Bulky Household Waste

Household waste which is either too heavy or too large to place in the waste container provided
(e.g. furniture, white goods).
Clinical Waste
A waste arising from the healthcare or clinical operations normally taking place in hospitals, nursing
homes, dentists, surgeries etc. Clinical wastes require specialised disposal services.
Collection Frequency
How often (frequently) waste is collected. This normally ranges from daily to weekly or alternate-
weekly.
Commercial Waste
Waste which arises from general operations in non-domestic properties. It does not include wastes
such as clinical waste or hazardous waste which need specialised disposal services.
Commercial Waste Service

A chargeable service provided by a council or private contractor to collect and dispose of
commercial waste.
Container
Term used as some councils or commercial waste services may accept waste in bags, boxes etc. as
well as bins.
Controlled Waste
The UK term used for wastes controlled under the EU Waste Framework Directive. It includes
household and commercial waste.
Curtilage
The land which surrounds and belongs to a dwelling.
Dry Recyclable Waste

Dry materials which can be collected for recycling. This will vary between locations, but may
include paper, card, glass, cans, plastic bottles, textiles and foil.
Dwelling
A house, flat or maisonette, including any accommodation therein of not more than 50m2 in total
floor area, forming part of the dwelling and used by a resident of the dwelling for the purposes of
any business, profession or calling.
Food Waste
Raw and cooked organic waste arising from animal and plant sources in the normal course of
cooking or preparing food.
Garden Waste
Organic waste arising from plants in the normal course of gardening.
Hazardous Waste
A waste which presents a hazard because of its toxicity, explosiveness or other properties.
Hazardous wastes require specialised disposal services or methods.
High-rise Building
Any building of 5 storeys or more (including the ground floor).
House in Multiple Occupation (HMO)

A dwelling occupied by more than two qualifying persons, being persons who are not all members
of the same family.
‘Qualifying persons’ means persons whose only or principal residence is the house in multiple
occupation, and for that purpose a person undertaking a full time course of further or higher
education who resides during term time in a dwelling shall, during the period of that person’s
residence, be regarded as residing there as his only or principal residence.
A person is a member of another’s family if:

• he is the spouse of that person, or he and that person live together as husband and wife, or
• he is that person’s parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, brother or sister
Household Waste
Waste which arises from dwellings in the course of normal household activities. It does not include
wastes such as clinical waste or hazardous waste which need specialised disposal services.
Low-rise Building
Any building of 4 storeys or less (including the ground floor).
Municipal Solid Waste (MSW)

The household waste and commercial waste collected by a council.
NI Local Government Association (NILGA)

The Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA) exists to represent the voice of local
government and facilitate the development of the sector.
Non-Domestic Property
Any property other than a dwelling, or any part of a dwelling which is used for non-domestic
purposes, eg business.
Organic Waste
Waste material arising from plant or animal sources. For the purposes of this document, organic
waste comprises food waste and garden waste.
RCV
Refuse Collection Vehicle: Normally known as a ‘bin lorry’, but can describe any vehicle which is
used to collect waste.
Receptacle
See ‘container’.
Recyclable Waste
A waste which can be used as or processed into a usable resource rather than being sent to landfill.
Refuse
See ‘Waste’.
Refuse Collection Crew

Normally known as the ‘bin men’. The council or commercial waste service employees who collect
the waste.
Residual Waste
Waste which cannot be recycled; the waste that is left after recyclable waste has been taken out.
Technical Advisers Group (TAG)

TAG’s main aims are to provide co-ordinated and comprehensive advisory services to local and
central government and its agencies and to provide a professional network for the development
and dissemination of best practice.
Waste
Any substance or object that the producer, user, or person in possession of it discards, intends to
discard or is required to discard.
Waste Arisings
The waste arising from, being generated by, or coming out of a property.
Waste Collection Point

The physical location where a property owner/user should present the waste in order for the refuse
collection crew to collect it (sometimes referred to as the bin collection point.)
Waste Fractions
The different elements or types of waste arising from a property. Waste from a dwelling might be
broken down into the residual waste and recyclable waste fractions; the recyclable waste can be
further broken down into the dry recyclable and organic recyclable fractions. Waste from a hospital
might be broken down into office waste, food waste and clinical waste fractions; these could be
further broken down into their residual and recyclable fractions.
Waste Management Partnership / Waste Management Group

A coalition of councils who operate a collective approach to strategic waste management
issues. Such issues typically include establishing waste treatment and disposal contracts and
infrastructure. There are three such partnerships operating in Northern Ireland:
• The Southern Waste Management Partnership (SWaMP2008) represents eight councils in the
southern region of Northern Ireland
• The North West Region Waste Management Group (NWRWMG) represents seven councils in
the north west region of Northern Ireland
• arc21 represents the remaining eleven councils in the east of Northern Ireland
Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP)

WRAP helps individuals, businesses and councils to reduce waste and recycle more, making better
use of resources and helping to tackle climate change. Established as a not-for-profit company in
2000, WRAP is backed by government funding from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Waste Storage Area

An area (whether open or enclosed) where waste is stored.
APPENDIX I – Gradients
1) General principles
The gradient of the pathway used to transport waste should conform to the guidance given in
Table 5, as illustrated in Figure 3.
An area qualifies as level if it has a gradient no steeper than 1:60.
If mechanical equipment is to be used to transport the waste, liaise with the council to
establish whether a steeper gradient is acceptable.
2) Examples:
Example 1: If the gradient is 1:11, there must be a level rest area (gradient no more than 1:60)
no more than 1m from the starting point. This rest area becomes the new starting point.
Example 2: If the gradient is 1:18, there must be a level rest area (gradient no more than 1:60)
no more than 8m from the starting point. This rest area becomes the new starting point.
Example 3: If the gradient is 1:25, there is no need for a level rest area at any point along the
route.
Table 5 - Pathway Gradients

Maximum travel distance before a
Gradient
level area is required (m)
1:11 1
1:12 2
1:13 3
1:14 4
1:15 5
1:16 6
1:17 7
1:18 8
1:19 9
1:20 10
1:21+ No limit
istance Rest area

m travel d
Maximu
Gradient
Figure 3: Pathway Gradients

APPENDIX II - Waste Storage Equipment
1) General
Waste should be stored in such a way as to prevent animal and vermin (including bird)
scavenging.
There are five commonly-used forms of storage equipment:
• Plastic Bags/ Sacks

• Plastic Boxes
• Wheeled Containers
• Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) Containers
• Skips
Alternative waste storage and collection methods, using underground storage containers, are
becoming more widely available. See Appendix VIII for more details.
Storage equipment should be maintained and repaired/ replaced as necessary.
Liaise with councils and commercial waste contractors to establish which forms of
storage equipment they will accept from the relevant properties.
2) Specifications for waste storage equipment
a) Plastic bags/ sacks
i) Size:
• Maximum capacity 60L; and

• Maximum dimensions 950mm long by 700mm overall width (gussets
extended).
ii) British Standards – should conform to BS 6642:1985.
iii) Gauge - should meet the following minimum standards to minimise the risk of
splitting:
(1) General office use: 120 gauge (30 micron), medium density, maximum 80%
recycled.
(2) Catering (hotels, restaurants etc): 160 gauge (40 micron), low density,
maximum 80% recycled.
Figure 4: Plastic bags/sacks

b) Plastic boxes
i) Capacity - typically 55L.
ii) Dimensions:
Table 6.1: Typical Dimensions (mm) – 55L Plastic Boxes
Height 375
Length 590
Width 440
iii) Note that the sizes of plastic boxes may vary. Liaise with the relevant council to
establish the actual size of kerbside box for design purposes.
Length Width
Height
Figure 5: Typical Kerbside Box

c) Wheeled containers
i) Two-wheeled plastic bins (‘wheelie’ bins)
(1) Capacity - most commonly 140L, 240L and 360L.

(2) British Standards – should conform to BS EN 840:2004.
(3) Dimensions:
Table 6.2 - Typical Dimensions (mm) – Two-wheeled Plastic Bins
Capacity 140L 240L 360L
Height 1100 1100 1115
Depth (front to back) 555 740 880
Width 505 585 665
(4) Liaise with the relevant council or commercial waste contractor to ensure that the
chosen wheeled bins are suitable.
W D
Figure 6: Typical 2 - Wheeled Bin
ii) Euro Bins (four castor wheels)
(1) Capacities - 660L and 1100L.

(2) British Standard – should conform to BS EN 840:2004.
(3) Security – should have a fixed lid which can be locked if required.
(4) Dimensions:
Table 6.3 - Typical Dimensions (mm) – Euro Bins
Capacity 660L 1100L
Height 1320 1470
Depth (front to back) 820 1260
Width 1380 1380
(5) Liaise with the relevant council or commercial waste contractor to ensure that the
chosen Euro Bins are suitable.
Width Depth
Height
Figure 7: Typical Euro Bin

d) Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) containers
i) These containers are:
• bulk storage containers;

• available in open and enclosed versions;
• available in a number of sizes and capacities, typically ranging between 10-40 cubic m
(the weight of the waste materials will dictate the size of container); they may be used
with or without a compactor;
• transported using a hook-lift vehicle.
ii) When designing for RORO containers, consideration needs to be given to:
(1) suitable siting; in particular:
• the RORO container should not obstruct any means of escape (particularly fire
exits); and
• to prevent the spread of fire, a RORO container should never be placed against
a building and should normally be a minimum of 6m away from any part of the
premises.
(2) access and operating requirements for the collection vehicle (see Appendix VI);
(3) the space required to offload empty containers and uplift full ones;
(4) ensuring that during loading/unloading the vehicle will not encroach on or block:
• any public right of way;

• fire exits or other entrances/exits.
iii) Note that councils do not generally provide a RORO collection service; this service is more
likely to be provided by a commercial waste contractor.
Figure 8: Typical RORO Container

e) Skips
i) These Containers are:
• bulk storage containers;

• generally open-topped;
• available in a number of sizes and capacities, typically ranging between 6-15 cubic
m (the weight of the waste materials will dictate the size of container); and
• transported using a special vehicle which attaches chains to lugs on the side of the
skip in order to lift it.
ii) When designing for skip containers, consideration needs to be given to the same issues
as for RORO containers.
iii) Skips containing waste should be covered when being transported.
iv) Note that councils do not generally provide a skip collection service; this service is more
likely to be provided by a commercial waste contractor.
Width Length
Height
Figure 9: Typical Skip Container

APPENDIX III - Waste Compactors
1) General
A compactor is a piece of mechanical equipment which compresses waste into a smaller

volume so that less storage capacity is required. The compacting operation will result in a
greater density and, therefore, greater weight of waste in a given volume.
Compactors are only suitable for developments of dwellings as part of a fully managed
system.
This appendix just gives some outline information and advice. You should do your own
detailed research before proceeding with a plan which incorporates a compactor.
Note that the guidance in Sections 1-8 of this guide pertains primarily to (un-compacted)
waste stored in wheeled containers. You will have to separately research the storage design
requirements for compacted waste which is not stored in wheeled containers.
Note that (as outlined below) there are a number of complications that can arise when
compactors are used. Therefore, councils and waste collection contractors may not accept
compacted waste. You will need to check with the relevant council or prospective waste
collection contractor before investing in a compactor or designing it into your waste
management plan. The advice given in this appendix is only applicable where use of a
compactor has been agreed with the council or contractor.
Ensure that where a compactor is used, the Waste Management Plan still facilitates
segregation of waste into the required fractions.
2) Types of compactor
There are several suppliers, makes and models of compactor, of varying sizes and
specifications. You should carry out more detailed research and agree an appropriate
compactor and site design in conjunction with the prospective waste collection
operator and/or the relevant council.
However, for information, the following types of compactor are commonly available:
a) Bag compactors
• Bag compactors compact waste in heavy-duty plastic waste sacks (typically 300
gauge).
• They generally have either a cylindrical or cabinet type body (the cabinet type are
typically similar in size and shape to a filing cabinet).
• They can typically achieve a compaction ratio in the region of 6:1.
• A bag of compacted waste may weigh in the region of 30kg.
Cylinder design
Figure 10: Example Bag Compactors Cabinet design

b) Wheeled bin compactors
• Wheeled bin compactors, as the name suggests, operate with wheeled bins. They
are available for most sizes of wheeled bins and Euro Bins.
• Adequate clearance/operating space will be required in excess of the footprint of
the bin and equipment.
• These compactors can achieve typical compaction ratios in the region of 6:1.
• Note that there is a risk of damage to plastic bins and castor damage to the
Euro Bins, depending on the design of the compactor and how well the bin is
supported during compaction.
• Wheeled bin compactors will vary in size, depending on the wheeled bin to be
accommodated. The footprint of the wheeled bin plus compactor will be typically
equal the footprint of the wheeled bin plus 50%-75%. Additional operating space
will also be required.
Compactor design for

2-wheeled bins
Compactor design for

Euro Bins
Figure 11: Example Wheeled Bin Compactors

c) Rotary compactors
• A rotary compactor uses a heavy duty spiked rotating head to tear and compact
waste fed into it.
• The compacted waste is normally deposited in a large bag or a wheeled container
for disposal.
• Typical compaction ratios are in the region of 6:1.
• Rotary compactors vary in size but are typically occupy a footprint in the region of
2.0m x 2.0m.
Figure 12: Example Rotary Compactor

d) Portable skip compactor
• This comprises an enclosed skip with a built-in compactor. The whole unit is
replaced when full.
• These compactors have a range of capacities, in the region of 10 – 40 cubic metres
and can achieve compaction ratio in the region of 4:1.
• They require direct access by a skip vehicle.
• These compactors are suitable for use in premises where a significant volume of
waste is likely to be produced, such as large offices, retail units and hotels.
• The space required will vary depending on the skip capacity.
• The site should be designed to accommodate the skip and the skip vehicle.
Figure 13: Typical Portable Skip Compactors

e) Static compactor
• These units are fixed and used in conjunction with a removable fully enclosed skip.
• Skips are available in a range of capacities, in the region of 10 to 50 cubic metres.
• Static compactors can achieve volume reductions in the region of 4:1.
• Static compactors are suitable for developments where a considerable volume
of waste is likely to be produced, such as large retail, hotel and commercial
developments.
• The space required will vary depending on the skip capacity.
• The site should be designed to accommodate the compactor, skip and skip
vehicle.
Static Compactor Enclosed exchangeable container
Figure 14: Example Static Compactor with RORO Container

3) Compactor applications:
The following are rough guidelines for suitable applications for the various types of
compactor. However, you should carry out your own detailed research with suppliers.
a) Offices
• Compactors are suitable for office developments larger than 2,500sqm.

• For offices >10,000sqm a rotary compactor is suitable.
• For offices >15,000sqm a portable skip compactor is suitable.
b) Light Industrial
• For units of >1,500sqm or for small units where the combined floor space is
>1,500sqm a small sack compactor is suitable.
c) Retail
• For units of >1,500sqm or for small units where the combined floor space is
>1,500sqm a small sack compactor is suitable.
• For major retail developments of >5,000sqm a rotary compactor is suitable.
• For major retail developments of >10,000sqm a portable skip compactor or larger
static compactor is suitable.
d) Restaurants or fast food outlets
• Compactors are useful for restaurants and for fast food outlets with a sit-in facility.
• A small sack compactor or a wheeled bin compactor is suitable for most
applications.
• A rotary compactor is suitable for restaurants with potentially high output.
e) Hotels
• For hotels of up to 250 bedrooms a small sack compactor, or the type using
wheeled containers, is the most suitable.
• For hotels of more than 250 bedrooms (particularly those with banqueting
facilities) a rotary compactor, portable skip compactor or a static compactor is
suitable.
f) Dwellings
• Compactors only tend to be effective in domestic developments where there is a

managed waste system with porterage.
4) Complications associated with the use of compactors
a) Compactors are mechanical equipment. A management strategy is required to take

account of all associated considerations, such as:
• training;
• ensuring that access to the equipment is suitably restricted; and
• ensuring that waste is compacted as necessary.
b) Wheeled containers filled with compacted waste will obviously weigh more than
wheeled containers (of the same size) filled with non-compacted waste. Because of this:
• there are additional health and safety risks for those who handle the wheeled
containers on site and for the collection crew;
• more careful consideration needs to be given to the locations and design of the
compactor site and the waste collection point, and the routes (including distance)
between them; and
• the mechanical lifts on an RCV may not be able to lift wheeled containers filled
with compacted waste.
c) Waste disposal costs are based on weight. The use of a compactor presents
complications for operators who have no weighing facility on their collection vehicles
and use a volume-to-weight conversion to calculate costs and charges.
d) Some types of compactor will require a forklift or other mechanical equipment to lift
the compacted waste. Consideration needs to be given to training, access and storage
requirements for such equipment.
e) Most compactors will require an electrical source, possibly 3-phase.

5) Compactor site design considerations
a) A metal floor plate should be fitted where waste is being compacted, to protect the
surface.
b) For static compactors, guide rails should be fitted so that the container lines up with the
compactor when it is being returned to the site.
c) An appropriate heavy-duty stop barrier should be fitted at the rear of a portable

compactor site.
d) When designing for portable skip compactors and static skip compactors, consideration
needs to be given to:
i) the access and operating requirements for the skip vehicle (see Appendix VI);
ii) whether space is required to offload an empty skip and uplift a full one;
iii) ensuring that during loading/unloading the skip vehicle will not encroach on or
block:
• any public right of way;
• fire exits or other entrances/exits.

APPENDIX IV – Waste Balers
1) General
Balers compact waste material and strap it into a self-contained bale.
Waste balers are available for a range of materials including cardboard, plastic, paper, foil and
polystyrene.
Balers are designed to produce a bale consisting of only one material (only cardboard,
only plastic etc.) However, the same baler may be suitable for producing bales of different
materials.
Balers should only be used in domestic developments as part of a fully managed system.
This appendix just gives some outline information and advice. You should do your own
detailed research before proceeding with a plan which incorporates a compactor.
Note that the guidance in Sections 1-8 of this guide pertains primarily to (un-compacted)
waste stored in wheeled containers. You will have to separately research the storage design
requirements for baled waste, which is typically stored on pallets.
Note that councils and waste collection contractors may not accept baled waste. You will
need to check with the relevant council or prospective waste collection contractor before
investing in a compactor or designing it into your waste management plan. The advice
given in this appendix is only applicable where use of a compactor has been agreed
with the council or contractor.
Ensure that where a compactor is used the Waste Management Plan still facilitates
segregation of waste into the required fractions
2) Types of baler
There are several suppliers, makes and models of baler, of varying sizes and specifications.
You should carry out more detailed research and agree an appropriate baler and
site design in conjunction with the prospective waste collection operator and/or the
relevant council.
However, for information, the following types of baler are commonly available:
a) Top-loading mini baler
• These are small top loading balers which would be used where space is limited
and material output is not likely to be excessive.
• Typical compression ratio of 6:1.
• Typical footprint is in the region of 1.0m x 1.0m, minimum headroom in the region
of 2.2m.
b) Top-loading baler
• These are versatile top loading balers, which are suitable for use in most
restaurants and retail units.
of 2.7m.
Figure 15: Example Top-loading Baler

c) Top-loading twin-chamber baling press
• These are efficient top loading balers, which are ideal for use where a reasonable
output of cardboard is possible, e.g. hotels, mixed retail developments and large
restaurants.
• Normally with a twin-chamber baler, the second chamber can be loaded while the
first is compacting.
of 2.2m.
Figure 16: Example Twin-Chamber Top-loading Baler

d) Front-loading balers
Front loading balers, as the name suggests, facilitate loading at the front, rather than the
top. They are available in a range of sizes, compression ratios and chambers, similar to
top-loading balers.
3) Additional considerations associated with the use of balers:
a) Balers are mechanical equipment. A management strategy is required to take account

of all associated considerations, such as:
• training;
• ensuring that access to the equipment is suitably restricted; and
• ensuring that waste is baled as necessary.
b) Balers are likely to require a forklift or other mechanical equipment to lift the baled
waste. Consideration needs to be given to training, access and storage requirements for
such equipment.
Figure 17: Example Front-loading Baler

APPENDIX V – Bring Sites
Bring Recycling Sites differ from other forms of recycling containers in that they are publicly
accessible. As a result, careful consideration should be given to public access and potential
nuisance when designing and locating Bring Sites.
C ouncils are increasingly providing Bring Recycling Sites to support kerbside recycling collections
or to target materials, such as glass, which may not be collected through a kerbside scheme. Bring
recycling schemes have also been found to be easier, more cost-effective methods of providing
recycling services in areas of high density housing.
The following key points have been adapted from ‘Good Practice Guide to Bring Recycling’, (2006),
DEFRA. The DEFRA guidance should be consulted fully when locating and designing Bring
Recycling Sites.
1) Bring Recycling Sites should be located:
• on a hard, level surface;

• in an area that will attract high numbers of people;
• close to a main road for public access;
• where they will be highly visible, with clear signage and good lighting;
• close to centres of high population density and pedestrian footfall;
• where they can be easily accessed and serviced; and
• where a litter bin can be sited nearby.
2) It is important that the site be accepted by local residents. Therefore, it should minimise the
negative impact on neighbouring domestic properties. To ensure this, Bring Recycling Sites
should:
• avoid areas which could be deemed a fire hazard;

• avoid areas where facilities could be used to gain access to neighbouring gardens or
premises;
• be designed and managed such that banks are locked and bolted to the ground;
• be designed such that banks and site infrastructure are vandal- and graffiti-proof; and
• be landscaped into their surrounding environs.
3) Bring Recycling Sites should be sited and designed in partnership with the relevant council.
APPENDIX VI - Vehicle Dimensions

and Access Requirements
1) General
This appendix contains the type of information necessary to design a development for access
by collection vehicles.
Roads should be designed to minimise the need for reversing and allow collection vehicles to
proceed in a mainly forward direction.
Where it is necessary to reverse a collection vehicle, an appropriate turning area should be

provided, free from parked cars and other obstacles.
Typical dimensions and access requirements are given here. Liaise with the relevant
council to establish the actual figures applicable for the location.
2) Refuse Collection Vehicle (RCV) (Three-axle 26.0 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight)
Table 7.1: Refuse Collection Vehicle (Three-axle 26.0 tonnes GVW)

Width 2.5m
Overall Length (including bin lifts) 11.8m
Height 3.8m
Minimum Height Clearance Required 4.5m
Turning Circle (kerb to kerb) 23.1m
Turning Circle (wall to wall) 24.7m
Axle Weight - Front 7.0 tonne
Axle Weight - 2nd 9.5 tonne
Axle Weight - 3rd 9.5 tonne
Figure 18: Typical 3-Axle Refuse Collection Vehicle

3) Skip vehicle (Two-axle 18.0 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight)
Table 7.2: Skip Vehicle (Two-axle 18.0 tonnes GVW)

Width (mirror to mirror) 3.0m
Overall Length 7.1m
Working Length (vehicle and skip) 11.0m
Height - Travelling (with skip) 3.7m
Minimum Height Clearance Required – Travelling 4.5m
Height – Working 4.45m
Minimum Height Clearance Required – Working 4.9m
Axle Weight – Front 7.1 tonne
Axle Weight – Rear 11.5 tonne
Notes:
The service bay should not have ceiling-mounted services (ducts, sprinklers, pipes etc.)
Figure 19: Typical Skip Vehicle

4) Roll-on/Roll-off vehicle (Four-axle 30.0 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight)
Table 7.3: Roll-on/Roll-off Vehicle (Four-axle 30.0 tonnes GVW)

Width 2.5m
Overall Length 11.0m
Working Length (vehicle and skip) 16.5m
Height - Travelling (with skip) 4.3m
Minimum Height Clearance Required – Travelling 5.0m
Height – Working 5.5m
Minimum Height Clearance Required – Working 6.0m
Notes:
The service bay should not have ceiling-mounted services (ducts, sprinklers, pipes etc.)
Figure 20: Typical RORO (Hook-lift) Vehicle

APPENDIX VII - Waste Chute Systems
1) General
A waste chute system consists of a ventilated vertical pipe penetrating all floors in a building.
Waste is fed into the system via hoppers inlets which are connected to the vertical pipe. At the
base of the waste chute a moveable communal waste container is provided for the collection
and removal of discharged material.
A waste chute system may be used as the sole means of solid waste removal for residents, or in
conjunction with other systems.
The other guidance in this document should be followed where waste chute systems are
used. However, (as outlined below) a number of additional considerations arise when waste
chutes are used. You should produce a Waste Management Plan to cover all design and
management considerations and liaise with the relevant council to ensure that the
arrangements are satisfactory.
2) The following additional considerations should be taken into account where a waste
chute system is used:
a) A suitable inspection and maintenance regime is necessary to ensure that chutes are
kept clean and clear of blockages.
b) The waste storage area needs to be maintained in order to ensure that capacity is
available and the waste chute is kept clear.
c) Careful thought should be given to how the segregation of waste will be achievedx.
Separate waste chutes may be provided, or segregation may be achieved by using a
combination of collection systems.
d) The issue of sound transfer from the waste chute (or the waste storage area) to
accommodation needs to be addressed.
e) Fire Safety separation is required between the accommodation and the waste chutey
(and the waste storage area).
x In order to ensure compliance with paragraph J(3)(b) of the Building Regulations (NI) 2000 (as amended); see Appendix XII.
y In order to ensure compliance with paragraph J(3)(f ) of the Building Regulations (NI) 2000 (as amended); see Appendix XII.
3) Where a waste chute system is to be used:
a) It should be designed to comply with BS 1703:2005z.
b) There should be a waste chute inlet no more than 30m from any individual dwelling.
c) The design of the overall waste management system for the building should:
• facilitate the segregation of waste in accordance with the requirements of the

council; and
• take into consideration possible future changes in the volumes and fractions of
waste to be collected.
d) Residents should be fully informed about:
• how to use the chute system; and

• the collection arrangements for the various fractions of waste.
z In order to ensure compliance with paragraph J3 of the Building Regulations (NI) 2000 (as amended); see Appendix XII
APPENDIX VIII - Alternative Treatment, Storage and

Collection Methods
1) General
This appendix outlines some alternative treatment, storage and collection methods which
you may wish to consider when designing your development. Many of these systems use
underground storage to reduce the amount of surface space used.
These are just some of the alternative methods, and there are various manufacturers. You
should do your own further research.
Each alternative system will have its own particular strengths and weaknesses. You should
carefully evaluate the systems available. Considerations include:
• cost;
• any specific plant/ equipment required (and access requirements);
• suitability for the size and type of development; and
• safety.
The chosen system should:
• facilitate the segregation of waste for recycling; and

• be able to be serviced by a standard vehicle and/or with standard attachments.
In commercial applications, the chosen system should have an access control system to
identify the user for charging purposes.
Systems are included in this appendix for information, not endorsement. In all cases,
you should liaise with the relevant council or prospective commercial waste contractor
in order to establish which alternative system, if any, is suitable and can be supported.
You should produce a Waste Management Plan to cover all design and management
considerations and liaise with the relevant council to ensure that the arrangements are
satisfactory. See Appendix IX for more information on Waste Management Plans.
2) Alternative waste treatments include:
a) Waste macerators
• A macerator is a device which chops or grinds waste for disposal into sink waste
pipes, drains and sewers. This includes food waste disposers, sink waste disposers,
waste grinders and waste disposal units.
• Use of macerators should be carefully managed in order to ensure that recyclable
waste is removed beforehand.
• The approval of Northern Ireland Water should be sought when considering
installing a macerator.
b) Pyrolysis plant
• Pyrolysis is a thermal treatment which reduces waste to ash, which can then be
flushed away via the sewage system.
• Small pyrolysis plants (in the order of 1 cu m) can be installed for communal use
(perhaps with chute systems).
• Use of pyrolysis plants should be carefully managed in order to ensure that
recyclable waste is removed beforehand.
• The approval of Northern Ireland Water should be sought when considering
installing a pyrolysis system.
3) Alternative waste storage and collection systems include:
a) Underground storage using standard wheeled containers
• With this type of system, users deposit waste via an inlet port above the ground
(this looks similar to a litter bin) and it falls into a standard wheeled container
which is submerged on a platform underground.
• Systems are available for use with most sizes of wheeled container (see Appendix
II for more details on wheeled containers).
• The whole arrangement is raised, either by an in-built hydraulic lift system or an
on-vehicle crane, to bring the wheeled container to ground level for collection.
• Due to collection vehicle access requirements, this type of system can only be
installed externally to a building.
Figure 21: Underground Storage Platform using Wheeled Container

b) Underground storage comprising an all-in-one unit
• With this type of system, an inlet port (which looks similar to a litter bin) above the
ground and a storage container below the ground form a complete unit.
• These units come in various capacities (typically in the 3000L – 5000L range).
• The whole unit is lifted by a crane attached to the collection vehicle. The waste is
emptied into the collection vehicle by opening trap doors on the bottom of the
unit.
• Due to collection vehicle access requirements, this type of system can only be
installed externally to a building.
Figure 22: Enclosed Underground Storage Unit

c) Underground vacuum system
• With this type of system, waste is deposited into inlet ports (located above ground
throughout the development) and extracted to a central collection point, via a
network of underground pipes.
• The central collection point is typically located 1-2 miles away from any given inlet.
• The waste is stored in standard RORO containers at the collection point (see
Appendix II for more information on RORO containers).
• The inlet ports can be located throughout the development.
• The inlet ports can be installed internally and/or externally to a building.
• A vacuum system is typically only viable where:
(1) there is a density of at least 50 properties/ha; and
(2) there are at least 500 dwellings connected.
Figure 23: Underground Vacuum System

APPENDIX IX - Design of a Waste Management Plan
1) General
A Waste Management Plan should be produced and agreed with the relevant council where
requested, or under any of the following circumstances:
• waste will be stored in communal waste containers;

• containers of greater than 240L capacity are to be used;
• the proposed waste storage area is in a basement;
• a bulky household waste storage area is provided;
• the development is commercial or mixed-use;
• a waste compactor or baler is to be used;
• a waste chute system is to be used; or
• any new or alternative waste treatment, storage or collection method is to be used.
2) A Waste Management Plan should detail:
i) Estimated volumes of each fraction of waste.

ii) The temporary internal storage arrangements for segregation of waste (in dwellings).
iii) The arrangements for storage and collection of bulky household waste.
iv) Any proposed compacting or baling equipment, and the associated design and
management arrangements, as outlined in Appendices III and IV.
v) Whether a waste chute system is to be used, and the associated design and
management arrangements, as outlined in Appendix VII.
vi) Whether any new or alternative waste treatment, storage or collection method is to be
used, and any associated additional design or management arrangements.
vii) The numbers and types of containers that will be used for each waste fraction.
viii) The locations and sizes of the waste storage areas, and the numbers and types of
containers to be accommodated.
ix) How segregation of waste for recycling will be enforced in developments using
communal waste storage areas, communal waste containers or waste chute systems.
x) How commercial and household waste will be segregated in mixed-use developments.
xi) How the waste from different commercial properties will be segregated and identified
to ensure correct charging.
xii) How waste will be transported to the storage areas.
xiii) The location and size of the waste collection point.
xiv) How waste will be transported to the waste collection point.
xv) Design specification (widths, gradients, finishes etc.) for the paths/ routes between the
waste storage areas and the waste collection point(s).
xvi) Storage and access arrangements for any mechanical equipment proposed for the
transport of waste.
xvii) Risk assessments and method statements, as appropriate.
xviii) How residents/users will be advised of the various collection arrangements.
xix) How residents/users will be advised of changes to collection arrangements e.g. holiday
periods.
xx) A contact name/details for the council to use, should any problems arise.
xxi) Review dates to ensure that the arrangements are periodically re-examined and, if
necessary, updated.
APPENDIX X – Worked Examples
1) Example 1: 3-Bedroom Dwelling House – Scenario 1
Scenario:
This example assumes that you intend to build a 3-bedroom dwelling house and you have talked to
the relevant council who advised that:
1. they will be carrying out alternate-weekly collections8 for residual waste in black wheeled bins
and dry recyclable waste in blue wheeled bins; and
2. you should plan for a 50:50 split of residual and dry recyclable waste.
Section 1: Calculate the estimated residual and recyclable waste (in litres) arising from the
property on a weekly basis:
• According to Table 1 you can expect 70L per bedroom plus 30L = (70x3) + 30 = 240L weekly
total.
• A 50:50 split means 120L residual and 120L dry recyclable waste per week.
Section 2: Calculate the storage capacity (in litres) required for the various waste fractions;
Plan the internal or temporary storage; Determine the size and nature of the bulky
household waste storage area, if applicable:
• Alternate-weekly collections mean that storage is needed for 2x120L = 240L residual waste
and 2x120l = 240l dry recyclable waste.
• You arrange with the kitchen designer to incorporate segregated waste storage.
• You ensure that the design of your dwelling provides open space no less than 2.5m x 1.5m
which is suitably accessible for the temporary storage of bulky household waste.
Section 3 (in conjunction with Appendix II): Determine the numbers and types of container
required:
• Storage space is required for one black 240L wheeled bin and one blue 240L wheeled bin.
(Note that this example is mainly for education and familiarisation; in practice the council will
be able to advise you immediately on the numbers and types of container required for a
3-bedroom dwelling house.)
8 See Definition / Glossary of Terms for explanation.

Section 4: Calculate the size of the waste storage area:
You decide to store the bins side by side (single row layout) in an open storage area:
• Table 3.1 shows that you need 1.2m x 1.8m dedicated storage area, with a further 0.8m
available along the length of the row to allow free movement of the bins past each other for
collection.
Section 5: Determine the site and design of the waste storage area:
• Your storage area should comply with Sections 5.1 and 5.2.
Section 6: Design the access routes to and from the waste storage area:
• Your access routes should comply with Sections 6.1 and 6.2.
Section 7: Design the bulky household waste storage area:
• Not applicable. Requirements covered in Section 2.
Section 8: Determine the site and design of the waste collection point:
• Your waste collection point should comply with Sections 8.1 and 8.2.
2) Example 2: 3-Bedroom Dwelling House – Scenario 2
Scenario:
1. they will be carrying out alternate-weekly collections9 for residual waste in black wheeled bins
and organic waste in brown wheeled bins; dry recyclable waste will be collected on a weekly
basis in 55L Kerbside Boxes;
2. you should plan for a 40:30:30 split between residual:organic:dry recyclable waste;
3. the kerbside boxes may be stacked on top of one another; and
4. you should design the internal storage area to accommodate a 55L kerbside box with the
following dimensions:
 Height 375mm
 Width 440mm
 Length 590mm
• According to Table 1 you can expect: 70L per bedroom plus 30L = (70x3) + 30 = 240L weekly
total.
• A 40:30:30 split means 96L residual, 72L garden and 72L dry recyclable waste per week.
• Alternate-weekly collections mean that storage is needed for: 2x96L = 192L residual waste
and 2x72L = 144L garden waste.
• Weekly collections mean that storage is needed for 72L dry recyclable waste.
• After discussion with the council, you arrange with the kitchen designer to incorporate
storage areas to accommodate a standard 20L waste bin for residual waste and a 55L kerbside
box measuring 0.38m x 0.44m x 0.59m.

required:
• Storage space is required for one black 240L wheeled bin, one brown 240L wheeled bin and
two kerbside boxes.
(Note that this example is mainly for education and familiarisation; in practice the council will
be able to advise you immediately on the numbers and types of container required for a
3-bedroom dwelling house.)
You want to store the containers side by side (single row layout) in an open storage area, with the
kerbside boxes stacked on top of one another. You need space to accommodate three containers
of 240L or less:
collection.
3) Example 3: 5-Bedroom Dwelling House
Scenario:
1. they will be carrying out alternate-weekly collections10. Residual waste will be collected on
week 1 in black wheeled bins. On week 2, garden waste will be collected in brown wheeled
bins and dry recyclable waste will be collected in blue wheeled bins;
2. you should plan for a 40:20:40 split between residual:garden:dry recyclable waste; and
3. they can collect 360L bins, and you can and should design for these. However, according
to the council’s policy, only three 240L wheeled bins (one for each fraction of waste) will be
collected initially. The council will only offer a larger wheeled bin if a family of six or more
people occupy the property.
• According to Table 1 you can expect 70L per bedroom plus 30L = (70x5) + 30 = 380L weekly
total.
• A 40:20:40 split means 152L residual, 76L garden and 152L dry recyclable waste per week.
• Alternate-weekly collections mean that storage is needed for: 2x152L = 304L residual waste,
2x76L = 152L garden waste and 2x152L = 304L dry recyclable waste.
• You arrange with the kitchen designer to incorporate segregated waste storage in the
utility area adjacent to the kitchen; you arrange with the bathroom designer to incorporate
segregated waste storage in the main upstairs bathroom.

required:
• Storage space is required for one black 360L wheeled bin, one brown 240L wheeled bin and
one blue 360L wheeled bin.
You decide to store the containers side by side (single row layout) in an open storage area. You
need space to accommodate two 360L containers and one 240L container:
collection.
4) Example 4: Apartment Complex
Scenario:
This example assumes that you intend to build an apartment complex, comprising:
• Thirty 2-bedroom apartments and

• Ten 3-bedroom apartments
and you have talked to the relevant council who advised that:
1. they will be carrying out alternate-weekly collections11 for residual waste and dry recyclable
waste;
2. you should plan for a 50:50 split between residual and dry recyclable waste; and
3. they can collect Euro Bins.
• According to Table 1 you can expect 70L per bedroom plus 30L per apartment:
• 30 x ( (70x2) + 30 ) = 30 x 170L = 5100L weekly arisings from the 2-bedroom apartments
and
• 10 x ( (70x3) + 30 ) = 10 x 240L = 2400L weekly arisings from the 3-bedroom apartments
• 5100L + 2400L = 7500L weekly total from the apartment complex
• A 50:50 split means 3750L residual and 3750L dry recyclable waste per week.
• Alternate-weekly collections mean that storage is needed for: 2x3750L = 7500L residual waste
and 2x3750L = 7500L dry recyclable waste.
• You arrange with the kitchen designer to incorporate segregated waste storage in the kitchen
of each apartment.
• A bulky household waste storage area of 10 sqm will be required:
• You choose dimensions of 4.0m x 2.5m
11 Note also that relevant legislation is outlined in Appendix XI

required:
• You decide to use 1100L Euro Bins. Storage space is required for seven 1100L Euro Bins for
residual waste and seven 1100L Euro Bins for dry recyclable waste.
• From Tables 4.1 and 4.2 you see that if you store the 14 Euro Bins in a single row layout (side
by side) you need a much larger area overall than if you store them in opposing rows layout
(two rows of 7 facing one another).
• You decide on the opposing rows layout and plan in an enclosed waste storage area of 4.4m x
11.2m.
• Your bulky household waste area should comply with all of the guidance in Section 7.
5) Example 5: Franchised Fast-Food Outlet
Scenario:
This example assumes that you intend to open a franchised fast food outlet which will be open 7
days per week. According to your research and franchise information, you expect:
• 8,000 sales per week

• An 80:20 split of residual and dry recyclable waste
and you have talked to a commercial waste operator who advised that:
1. they can carry out collections for residual and recyclable waste up to 6 days per week; and
2. they can collect any type of wheeled container.
• According to Table 1 you can expect 5L per sale i.e. 8,000 x 5L = 40,000L per week.
• An 80:20 split means 32,000L residual and 8,000L dry recyclable waste per week.
• The business will generate 32,000/7 = 4571L of residual and 8,000/7 = 1143L of dry recyclable
waste per day.
• Your research shows that no commercial waste contractor operates more than six days per
week in the area. You decide on daily collections (six days per week) to minimise the amount
of waste storage required. But you still need capacity for two days’ waste. Thus, waste storage
is needed for: 2x4571L = 9142L residual waste and 2x1143L = 2286L dry recyclable waste.
• You think through the temporary storage requirements required internally to ensure that
waste fractions can be accommodated and segregated before being transferred to the main
waste storage area.
• Bulky household waste storage is only required for dwellings. It is not necessary for your fast
food outlet.
• However, you contact the council’s Environmental Health Service to establish whether there
are any other waste storage considerations to be addressed.
required:
• You compare the numbers of 660L Euro Bins required with the number of 1100L Euro Bins
required.
• You would need fourteen 660L Euro Bins for residual waste and four 660L Euro Bins for dry
recyclable waste. i.e. eighteen 660L Bins in total.
• You would need nine 1100L Euro Bins for residual waste and three 1100L Euro Bins for dry
recyclable waste. i.e. twelve 1100L Bins in total.
• After due consideration, you decide that the containers should be enclosed in a purpose-built
store.
• From the tables you see that:
• You would actually need slightly less area for the eighteen 660L Bins than the twelve
1100L Bins.
• In this case, whether you use 660L Bins or 1100L Bins, the opposing rows layout (two
rows of bins facing one another) requires considerably less space overall than the single
row layout (all bins side by side).
• However, quotes from the commercial waste operator indicate that it will be cheaper to
collect the 1100L Bins.
• You decide to use 1100L Bins, laid out in two opposing rows of six, which means that you
need a waste storage area of 4.4m x 9.6m.
• Not applicable.
APPENDIX XI – Relevant Agencies and Legislation
1) General
The guidance in this document spans several areas of legislation, each of which is regulated by
different agencies.
This appendix outlines the roles of the relevant agencies and briefly discusses the key pieces of
legislation which are relevant to the contents of this guide.
Note that there may be other relevant legislation which has not been included.
Note that the definitions for various terms may vary between the various pieces of legislation.
A distinction has been made between direct legislation and related legislation, as follows:
• Direct legislation/ policy is legislation/ policy which has a direct bearing on the design
of waste storage areas and access to them. This guide has been designed to bring about
compliance with direct legislation/ policy.
• Related legislation/ policy is legislation/ policy which is relevant to the management
of waste or which may be breached as a result of problems arising from inadequate or
unsatisfactory waste storage areas and access to them.
2) Department of Finance and Personnel (Building Standards Branch): Building

Regulations
a) The Role of the Department of Finance and Personnel
The Building Standards Branch of the Department of Finance and Personnel (DFP) is
responsible for the development and the implementation of policy and legislation
relating to the Building Regulations for Northern Ireland.
b) Direct Legislation
i) The Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000 - Part J (Solid waste in buildings)
These regulations apply to most building work and are made principally to ensure
the health, safety, welfare and convenience of people in and around buildings.
Part J of the Regulations is detailed in Appendix XII.
3) DoE Northern Ireland Environment Agency: Waste Legislation
a) The role of the Northern Ireland Environment Agency
The Northern Ireland Environment Agency takes the lead in advising on and
implementing the Government’s environmental policy and strategy in Northern Ireland.
The Agency carries out a range of activities to promote the Government’s key themes of
sustainable development, biodiversity and climate change.
The Agency’s overall aims are to:
• protect and conserve Northern Ireland’s natural heritage and built environment;
• control pollution; and
• promote the wider appreciation of the environment and best environmental
practices.
b) Direct legislation:
i) The Waste and Contaminated Land (Northern Ireland) Order 1997
This Order is designed to ensure that waste is properly controlled. It gives

councils the powers to stipulate arrangements for waste storage, presentation and
collection.
ii) Pre-treatment Regulations
The pre-treatment regulations require that all waste generated by businesses

should be treated prior to being sent to landfill.
c) Related legislation:
i) The Controlled Waste (Duty of Care) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2002
These Regulations articulate the powers provided in the Waste and Contaminated
Land (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 in order to place a Duty of Care on any person
who produces, imports, carries, keeps, treats or disposes of Controlled Waste.
The 2002 Regulations and a Code of Practice are available on the Northern Ireland
Environment Agency website www.ni-environment.gov.uk or by telephoning the
Duty of Care Helpline on 028 9056 9360.
ii) The Controlled Waste Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2002
These Regulations detail various categories of waste and explain under what
circumstances a charge may or may not be made for collection.
iii) The Litter (Northern Ireland) Order 1994
This Order details the circumstances under which a notice may be served to
enforce the prevention of littering.
4) DoE Northern Ireland Planning Service: Planning Legislation & Policy
a) The Role of the Planning Service
The Department of the Environment is responsible for planning control and the
regulation of waste management in Northern Ireland. The Planning Service, an Agency
within the Department, administers its planning function.
The planning system exists to regulate the development and the use of land in the
public interest. The Department’s functions, in relation to planning, are set out in the
Planning (Northern Ireland) Order 1991. Planning Service is responsible for developing,
and implementing, Government planning policies and development plans in Northern
Ireland. The Agency carries out a range of activities which promote the Government’s
key themes of sustainable development and creating a better environment. The
principle of sustainable development is reflected in the Regional Development Strategy
and it is a key aim of the Waste Management Strategy to achieve fully sustainable waste
management.
The management of waste is an important requirement of modern society. Storage

space and waste management facilities within proposed developments should be
developed to the highest standards so that waste can be dealt with in a way which
minimises impacts on the environment. Arrangements for waste disposal from a
development site are a factor to be considered in reaching a planning decision.
b) Direct Policy
i) Planning Policy Statement (PPS) 7: Quality Residential Environments
This PPS sets out DoE policy for achieving quality in new residential developments.
Waste storage arrangements may be considered as material issues in terms of
amenity, private space and sustainable development.
ii) The Addendum to PPS 7: Residential Extensions and Alterations
This sets out DoE policy for achieving quality in relation to residential extensions
and alterations, including the private amenity space required for bin storage.
iii) Planning Policy Statement (PPS) 12: Housing in Settlements
This PPS sets out DoE policies to guide housing development, including layout
considerations to facilitate waste storage and access.
5) Department for Social Development (Housing Division): Housing Legislation
a) The Role of the DSD Housing Division
The DSD Housing Division have overall control and responsibility for preparing and directing
social housing policy in Northern Ireland, and work with the Northern Ireland Housing
Executive and registered housing associations in implementing social housing policies.
b) Related Legislation
i) The Housing (Management of HMO) Regulations (NI)1993
These regulations require managers to keep their houses, yards and gardens free
from loose rubbish and litter, and to provide and maintain adequate numbers of
suitable waste receptacles for the residents.
6) Northern Ireland Housing Executive: Housing Legislation
a) The Role of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive is Northern Ireland’s overall housing authority. It is a
non-Departmental public body which works to ensure that everyone has access to a decent
affordable home in a safe and healthy community.
b) Related Legislation
i) The Housing (Management of HMO) Regulations (NI)1993
These regulations require managers to keep their houses, yards and gardens free
from loose rubbish and litter, and to provide and maintain adequate numbers of
suitable waste receptacles for the residents.
7) Chief Environmental Health Officers Group: Environmental Health Legislation
a) The Role of councils’ Environmental Health Services
Councils’ Environmental Health Services take a leading role in improving the quality of life
now and for future generations by helping to create a healthier and safer place to live, work
and visit.
Environmental Health Officers carry out inspections of food, commercial, and residential
properties to ensure they comply with current standards. They provide advice to the public
and businesses and in so doing help to promote and develop people’s health and quality of
life. They also investigate complaints and enforce various pieces of legislation.
b) Direct Legislation
i) The Food Hygiene Regulations (NI) 2006
These regulations require compliance with European standards which specify

that adequate provision is to be made for the storage and disposal of food waste,
non edible by-products and other refuse. Refuse stores are to be designed and
managed in such a way to enable them to be kept clean.
c) Related Legislation
i) Public Health Acts (NI) 1878 to 1971
Under these Acts it is an offence to allow offensive rubbish to build up on private

property.
APPENDIX XII: Part J of the Building

Regulations (NI) 2000 (as amended)
This appendix contains Part J (Solid waste in buildings) of the Building Regulations (NI) 2000 (as
amended by The Building (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2010).
This Crown copyright material is reproduced under the terms of the Click-Use Licence.
PART J
Solid waste in buildings
J1 Interpretation
In this Part -
INDIVIDUAL WASTE CONTAINERS means moveable containers for the storage of waste from a
single dwelling;
COMMUNAL WASTE CONTAINERS means moveable containers for the storage of waste from more
than one dwelling;
WASTE means solid waste; and
WASTE CHUTE SYSTEM means a system comprising of a hopper or hoppers; a waste chute or chutes;
a waste container chamber or waste container chambers and associated ventilation provisions.
J2 Solid waste storage

(1) A building shall be provided with adequate space for the storage of waste in containers, and such
space shall be -
(a) sited so as not to be prejudicial to the health of any person;
(b) sited so as to be reasonably accessible for use by people in the building for the storage of
waste and for emptying or removing each container;
(c) of sufficient area having regard to the number of necessary containers and the frequency
and method of removal; and
(d) reasonably accessible to the waste collection point.
(2) Every dwelling -
(a) on or below the fourth storey of a building shall have adequate space for individual waste
containers or access to communal waste containers or a waste chute system; and
(b) above the fourth storey of a building shall have access to a waste chute system.
J3 Waste chute systems

A waste chute system shall -
(a) be of such size, layout and construction as will ensure the hygienic conveyance of waste to
a waste container;
(b) be capable of facilitating the segregation of waste;
(c) be constructed of non-combustible materials;
(d) have non-absorbent inner surfaces;
(e) have adequate means of ventilation to the external air; and
(f ) be so constructed as to prevent the ignition of any part of the building in the event of any
waste within the system catching fire.
J4 Deemed-to-satisfy provisions for regulations J2(1)(b), J2(1)(c) and J3
(1) The requirements of regulation J2(1)(b) shall be deemed to be satisfied, in the case of a building
specified in column (2) of Table J opposite the reference to that regulation, if-
(a) the waste container space is sited in accordance with the provisions specified opposite thereto
in column (3); or
(b) the waste container space is sited in accordance with the relevant provisions of the
publications specified opposite thereto in column (3), as amended by the publications specified
opposite thereto in column (4).
(2) The requirements of regulation J2(1)(c) shall be deemed to be satisfied, in the case of a building
specified in column (2) of Table J opposite the reference to that regulation, if the waste storage area
is sized in accordance with the provisions specified opposite thereto in column (3).
(3) The requirements of regulation J3 shall be deemed to be satisfied, in the case of a building specified
in column (2) of Table J opposite the reference to that regulation, if the waste chute system used
in the building is designed and constructed in accordance with the relevant provisions of the
publications specified opposite thereto in column (3), as amended by the publications specified
opposite thereto in column (4).
Table J
(Solid waste in buildings)
Regulations Buildings Publications or provisions Amendments

(1) (2) (3) (4)
J2(1)(b) a dwelling not served the space for the waste containers is at -
Solid waste by a waste chute a travel distance of not more than 30m
storage system from the dwelling and sited so that
the waste containers can be removed
without being taken through the
dwelling or any other building, other
than a garage, carport or other open
covered space
a dwelling served by a BS 5906: 2005 -

waste chute system
J2(1)(c) a dwelling not served a washable hard-standing base not less -
Solid waste by a waste chute than 1.8 m x 1.2 m to accommodate
storage system the waste containers and provide
reasonable access
J3 any building BS 1703: 2005; and -

Waste chute BS 5906: 2005 -
systems
APPENDIX XIII - References
1) Bibliography:
a) ‘Waste and Recycling Storage Requirements: A guide for developers, architects and building
contractors’, (2005), Belfast City Council.
b) ‘Towards Resource Management: The Northern Ireland Waste Management Strategy 2006-
2020’.
c) BS 5906:2005 Waste management in buildings - Code of practice.
d) ‘Fire Safety Risk Assessment – Factories and Warehouses’, (2006), DCLG.
e) ‘Good Practice Guide to Bring Recycling’, (2006), DEFRA.
f ) ‘Clean Streets: Waste and Recycling Storage Requirements’, (March 2007), City of Westminster.
g) ‘Supplementary Planning Guidelines: Guidance Notes for Developers on the collection of
Domestic Refuse’, (Adopted December 2000, updated November 2003), Hertsmere Borough
Council.
h) ‘Waste & Recycling Storage and Collection Requirements: Guidance for Architects &
Developers’, (Updated May 2006), London Borough of Lambeth.
i) ‘Planning Advice Note 3: Refuse and Recycling Provisions in New and Refurbished Residential
Developments’, London Borough of Barking and Dagenham.
j) ‘Underground Banks Advice Note’, (Not issued), London Borough of Barking and Dagenham.
k) ‘Information for Developers and Architects – Provision of Domestic and Green Waste
Collection Services, and Recycling Facilities for Flats’, (October 2006), London Borough of
Barnet.
l) ‘Design Guide on Refuse Storage for New Residential Properties’, (Draft for Public
Consultation, July 2007), North Devon District Council.
m) ‘Standard Waste and Recycling Requirements’, (Updated 26-04-06), Chichester District Council.
n) ‘Waste Storage and Collection Guidance for New Developments: For use by Building
Designers and Managers’, (Last amended 15-12-06), Manchester City Council.
o) ‘Refuse and Recycling Bins at New or Converted Properties’, (Last updated 24-10-07),
Rushmoor Borough Council.
p) ‘Information Note: Recycling for Existing Developments with Communal Facilities’, (June
2004), London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.
q) ‘Supplementary Planning Guidance: Recycling for New Developments with Communal
Facilities’, (June 2004), London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.
r) ‘Advice Note: G23 Waste Management Plans’, (January 2007), London Borough of Hackney.
2) The following documents/ sources are referred to in this guide:
a) ‘Waste and Recycling Storage Requirements: A guide for developers, architects and building
contractors’, (2005), Belfast City Council.
b) ‘Towards Resource Management: The Northern Ireland Waste Management Strategy 2006-
2020’, The Department of the Environment NI.
c) BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method): Ecohomes
(environmental assessment methods are available for a range of buildings; Ecohomes is the
assessment method for dwellings).
d) ‘Code for Sustainable Homes’, (October 2007), Department for Communities and Local
Government.
e) Review of Municipal Waste Component Analysis, (February 2008), DoE NI Environment Agency.
f ) ‘Good Practice Guide to Bring Recycling’, (2006), DEFRA.
g) BS 5906:2005 Waste management in buildings - Code of practice.
h) BS 6642:1985 Specification for disposable plastics refuse sacks made from polyethylene.
i) BS 1703:2005 Specification for refuse chutes and hoppers.
j) BS EN 840:2004 Mobile waste containers.
3) Other useful documents:
a) ‘Publication No.3: Advice on storage and on-site treatment of household, commercial and
industrial wastes’, Chartered Institution of Wastes Management.
b) ‘Designing for Deliveries’, Freight Transport Association - publication/CD-Rom design aid for
engineers, architects and others involved in the design and construction of premises used by
lorries and other commercial vehicles.
c) ‘Duty of Care and Your Business: Legislation on Duty of Care’, Northern Ireland Environment Agency.
4) Useful web addresses:
a) www.bre.co.uk Building Research Establishment

b) www.bsigroup.com British Standards Institution
c) www.ciwm.co.uk Chartered Institution of Wastes Management
d) www.communities.gov.uk Department for Communities and Local Government
e) www.defra.gov.uk/environment Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs
f) www.dfpni.gov.uk/building-regulations Building Regulations Northern Ireland
g) www.environment-agency.gov.uk Environment Agency, GB
h) www.fta.co.uk Freight Transport Association
i) www.hseni.gov.uk Health & Safety Executive Northern Ireland
j) www.ni-environment.gov.uk DoE NI Environment Agency
k) www.planningni.gov.uk DoE NI Planning Service
l) www.wastewatch.org.uk Waste Watch
m) www.wrap.org.uk WRAP website

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Local Government

Waste Storage Guide

1. Estimating the Weekly Waste Arisings 11

Technical Working Group Members

Trevor Burns Banbridge District Council

The Department of Finance and Personnel

Concerns about sustainability and climate change are changing

The Executive has sought to give a strategic focus to introduce

Minister of the Environment

 residential buildings; and

How to use this Guide

 Sections 1 - 4 deal primarily with estimations and calculations.

Appendices at the end of the document serve two broad purposes:

 They provide some general supporting information, including worked examples.

ii. Council Considerations

iii. Waste Collection Technologies

Alternative Waste Storage Strategies and Methods

 75% of 1995 levels by 2010

ii. ‘Towards Resource Management’

Household Waste and Commercial Waste

1. Estimating the Weekly

1.2. Total Weekly Waste Arisings

1.3. Breakdown of Waste Arisings

Table 1 - Typical Weekly Waste Arisings5

Dwelling (not HMO)

This estimate assumes residential

100L per bedroom + 60L

Office 50L per employee 10 employees 500

Restaurant 75L per dining space 30 dining spaces 2,250

4/5 Star Hotel 350L per bedroom 370 bedrooms 129,500

2/3 Star Hotel 250L per bedroom 100 bedrooms 25,000

1 Star Hotel / B&B 150L per bedroom 5 bedrooms 750

Supermarket (small – sales area up

School 2,500L per 100 pupils 700 pupils 17,500

2. Calculating the Storage Capacity Required

2.2. For any property or collection of properties, note that:

2.3. For mixed-use developments:

2.4. For dwellings:

2.4.1. (External) Waste Storage

Waste will most likely be collected on a weekly or alternate-weekly basis, or some

Contact the relevant council to determine the collection frequencies for

2.4.2. Internal Waste Storage

6 See Definitions/Glossary of Terms for explanation.

2.4.3. Bulky Household Waste

Any individual dwelling should be designed to provide an external area (within

Any apartment complex should be designed to provide a designated bulky

• provide at least 10sqm for every 50 households or part thereof;

2.5. For non-domestic properties:

2.5.1. (Main) Waste Storage

Waste will be collected on a frequency agreed under contract with a commercial

Table 2 – Collection Frequency and Storage Capacity

The storage capacity should accommodate expected changes in waste collection

2.5.2. Temporary Waste Storage

2.5.3. Special Considerations

• aste Cooking Oil - Caterers such as hotels, restaurants and takeaway

• aw meat, fish, poultry etc. – Retailers such as butchers, fishmongers and

• linical Waste – Hospitals, health centres, clinics and other healthcare

2.6. Possible measures to reduce the required storage capacity

YOU SHOULD NOW KNOW: