Media response - kerbside bin rules

Published on 10 October 2024

Response to The Advertiser.

I'm writing about council rules around leaving bins out after rubbish collection and whether councils fine residents for failing to bring in their bins in a timely manner. We recently learned Port Adelaide Enfield Council fines residents $312 for leaving their bins out too long. I wanted to ask what your council's rules are around this. Does the council fine people for leaving their bins out too long? If so, how many fines has the council issued? How much is the fine? Do residents get a warning before they're fined? How does council determine when to fine a resident over leaving bins out? Is it based on complaints from residents or is there an inspector that monitors whether bins have been taken back in? How long are you allowed to have your bins out leading up to and after rubbish collection? 

We ask that residents and businesses remove bins from the verge within 24 hours of collection, which among other things helps ensure accessibility for pedestrians and vehicles.

Under the council’s bylaws, a $187 fine may apply if a bin is left on the verge for more than 72 hours, but no fines have been issued since this requirement was introduced in 2023.

This is an uncommon offence, and while we have the ability to expiate, we typically take an education-before-enforcement approach to this matter.

This includes leaving an education flyer on bins that have been left out, and having face-to-face or phone conversations with residents/businesses where possible.

ENDS