Commercial waste
The City of London Corporation does not provide a commercial waste service. This service can be arranged through our partner, Veolia, by calling 0845 606 0460. Alternatively, you can find a list of registered waste carriers on the GOV.UK website.
Waste on Street Restrictions
Between 8am-6pm (Monday to Sunday) all businesses are restricted from putting out waste and recycling bags and loose cardboard for collection on the public highway and footpaths.
These restrictions improve street quality by reducing obstructions, increasing access, and enhancing pedestrian safety. Limiting to these times also decreases loose rubbish being added, which can encourage vermin.
Regulations and Responsibilities
It is an individual business's responsibility to comply with all relevant regulations or risk enforcement action and potential prosecution. More information is available on the disposal of commercial waste page on the GOV.UK website.
Duty of Care
Businesses are required to manage their waste responsibly, ensuring it is produced, stored, transported, and disposed of in a manner that does not harm the environment. This responsibility is outlined in the Environmental Protection Act 1990 (Section 34) and the Environmental Protection Act (Duty of Care) Regulations 1991. For practical advice on meeting your Duty of Care obligations, please visit the Right Place, Right Waste website.
As part of this, businesses must store waste securely to prevent it from escaping (e.g., tying bags, flattening boxes, closing lids). Additionally, waste must be transported by an authorised business, and a Waste Transfer Note (WTN) must be completed for every transfer of waste or for a specified period. The WTN must be retained for at least two years.
New 'Simpler Recycling' regulations came into force from 31 March 2025 which require all businesses in England with 10 or more full-time equivalent employees to separate recyclable materials and food waste from your general waste. This will apply to all businesses from 31 March 2027. More information can be found here: Business of Recycling | WRAP
For more information
Advice is also available to waste producers, developers, architects, and planners on waste storage and treatment and the disposal of hazardous and intractable waste from the City of London. Please call 020 7606 3110.
- The Environment Agency
- GOV.UK (contains information formerly on the Defra website, including waste legislation. Use the search facility)
The Clean City Awards Scheme
The Clean City Awards Scheme helps drive sustainable business. We help City businesses improve in the following areas:
- Air quality and climate action
- Communication and engagement around sustainability
- Resource efficiency and move towards circular economy practices
- Transition towards a Plastic Free City
Find out how your business can become a member to apply for awards, access resource packs and take part in Environmental Best Practice meetings and workshops.