Council request that residents don't put whole trees in green waste bins

Trees might qualify as green vegetative recyclable rubbish but Hornsby Shire Council in Sydney, Australia, wants its residents to know they aren't bin friendly.



Council officers have been collecting photos of overly-ambitious attempts to make the 240-litre mobile bin accommodate all manner of arboreal offcuts. On two occasions this year, Cherrybrook residents have attempted to squeeze mature trees into the bins.

While comical, they are no laughing matter for the council's waste collection team, posing a hazard to man and vehicle. "Points for trying to dispose of green waste," says a council spokesman. "But here's some free advice: (A tip) that would seem obvious, it's not big enough for an entire tree."



The council asked residents to ensure bins weigh no more than 70 kilograms, that branches be no longer than 1.2 metres and that the bin lid is "at least be able to face down". Drivers have the right to refuse any bin they feel will cause a mess or damage the truck.