Residents will need to register their vehicles before using household waste recycling centres under new rules introduced by the council.

Cheshire West and Chester Council said the new system is designed to reduce unauthorised use and make sure centres remain available for residents who need them.

Vehicles will now need to be registered in advance, with automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras used to identify vehicles when residents arrive at a recycling centre.

Once registered, residents will no longer need to provide ID or proof of address, and paper permits will no longer be required.

Each household will be entitled to 30 visits to household waste recycling centres within any 12-month period, with residents able to monitor how many visits they have remaining.

Additional visits can be requested if the allowance is used, subject to conditions.

Registration will be a one-off process for each household, with details only needing to be updated if residents move home or change vehicles. Households can register up to three vehicles, including one commercial-type vehicle.

The council says the new system is being introduced following concerns over frequent visits and suspected non-household waste being brought to recycling centres, particularly by people using commercial-type vehicles.

A ten-year waste management strategy was adopted by the council in 2021, with a review of household waste recycling centres forming part of plans to reduce waste, increase recycling and provide a cost-effective service.

The changes follow cabinet approval in June 2025 after a public consultation in 2024 on proposals to improve the future of HWRCs.

Deputy council leader, Cllr Karen Shore, thanked those who have already registered their vehicle.

She said: "This is mandatory and people may be turned away if they haven't already registered, so I encourage residents to register now to avoid any issues when visiting."

"Waste from commercial premises, businesses or any 'paid‑for' work is not permitted at any HWRC site.

"There has been a sharp increase in frequent visits and suspected non-household waste being brought to our sites, particularly by those using commercial type vehicles.

"Dealing with unauthorised waste costs the Council money and reduces capacity for residents to use the sites. The new registration system will make things fairer and more efficient for everyone."

The Borough's HWRCs have been managed by Cheshire West Recycling (CWR) since April 2026.

You can register your vehicle and find more information on HWRCs here.

Those without a smartphone or access to a computer, who wish to register a "standard" type vehicle, can contact 0300 123 7026. Assistance will be provided to complete a registration application form.

Residents can also get support with online registration at their local library, where staff can assist with accessing the website or completing the form.