Key takeaway
How bin collection works in Ireland, what goes in each bin, pay-by-weight explained, and how to avoid common mistakes.
How waste collection works in Ireland
Unlike many countries, Ireland's household bin collection is not run by local councils. Private waste companies compete for customers in most areas, meaning you need to sign up with a provider and pay for the service. Some areas may have a single franchise operator, while others have several competing companies.
The three bins
Most Irish homes have three bins:
- Black/grey bin (general waste) — non-recyclable rubbish: food-contaminated packaging, tissues, nappies, broken ceramics
- Green/blue bin (recycling) — clean paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, tins, cans, glass bottles and jars
- Brown bin (organic/food waste) — food scraps, vegetable peelings, teabags, garden waste
Contaminating your recycling bin with non-recyclable items (especially food-contaminated packaging) can result in your bin not being collected, or the whole load going to landfill.
Pay-by-weight charging
Most Irish waste companies charge on a pay-by-weight or lift-and-tag basis. You typically pay a standing charge plus a per-kg rate for your general waste bin. Recycling is often collected for free or at a much lower rate — which is a good incentive to recycle properly. Charges vary by company, so compare before signing up.
Finding a provider
Search for waste collectors in your area on mywaste.ie, the national waste management information portal. It lists approved collectors by county. Your landlord or neighbours can also tell you who they use.
General guidance only. Always verify with official sources — gov.ie, citizensinformation.ie, hse.ie.