About the new recycling centre ePasses
Once you’re signed up, your ePass is ready to use straight away.
You don't need to book. You can turn up whenever you like during opening hours. Your number of visits won’t be limited, apart from the existing rules for vans and trailers.
You don't need a smartphone to access recycling centres because ANPR cameras will identify registered vehicles. If you don't have an ePass, staff can help you get registered.
A household can have up to 2 ePasses at a time. Hertfordshire residents can register for either 2 car ePasses or 1 car ePass and 1 van and trailer permit. Cambridgeshire and Essex residents are eligible for 1 car permit per household only.
Why we've introduced an ePass scheme
Lots of our neighbouring councils already restrict access to their recycling centres. Doing the same here helps prioritise local residents and reduces misuse.
We have operated a permit scheme for vans and trailers for a number of years. We also have a permit scheme for reciprocal access agreements which allow Cambridgeshire and Essex residents to use Hertfordshire recycling centres.
We will soon convert van and trailer permits and out of county permits into ePasses.
If you visit without an ePass
You must have an ePass to visit any Hertfordshire recycling centre.
If you arrive at a recycling centre and you don't have an ePass, our site staff will help you to apply there and then, if you have proof of address with you.
Otherwise, you will have to leave the recycling centre and return when you have:
- applied online for an ePass
- brought proof of address with you to the recycling centre for help with applying from site staff.
If you buy a vehicle that already has an ePass registered to it
We can remove the vehicle from its previous owner’s ePass. You must provide us with proof of vehicle ownership.
Email wasteaware@hertfordshire.gov.uk.
Hire vehicles and courtesy cars
You can apply for an ePass for a hire vehicle in the same way you would your own vehicle. There are options on the online form for this. You will need to bring your hire agreement with you, proof of address and ePass confirmation email when you visit a recycling centre.
Hire vehicle ePasses are valid for 7 days only.
If you apply for an ePass for a hire van, you will be limited to 3 visits within the 7 day period.
You move house and the previous occupant hasn't updated their ePass
We can cancel the previous occupant’s ePass. You must provide us with proof that you live at the address, such as your driving licence or a utility bill.
Email wasteaware@hertfordshire.gov.uk.
Cancel your ePass
If you believe your ePass should be cancelled, please provide a clear explanation outlining your reasons for the request and a member of the team will get back to you.
Email wasteaware@hertfordshire.gov.uk.
Charging for excess DIY Waste
Many types of DIY waste are legally classed as industrial waste, even when produced at home. Householders can currently dispose of limited amounts for free at Recycling Centres or pay for private disposal. The new E pass system will track DIY waste visits so people can’t exceed the free allowance by visiting multiple sites. If you go over the limit, staff will be notified, and you’ll be able to pay to dispose of the extra waste instead of being turned away.
Will the new system lead to more fly-tipping?
There is no evidence to suggest that access systems cause fly tipping. Increases are usually linked to rogue waste carriers, people not checking who they hire to take their waste, or commercial operators trying to avoid disposal fees. We’re working hard with partners to tackle it and would urge everyone to dispose of waste responsibly and report fly-tipping when they see it.