In addition to the normal weekly collection of domestic refuse, the Council will remove bulky items such as old furniture, household appliances, garden refuse and rubble.


Restrictions for special collections came into effect from 1 September 2003.

• No more than 8 items to be collected at any 1 visit (example: three piece suite = 3 items; dining table and four chairs = 5 items)
• Each household will be restricted to no more than 3 collections in each financial year. from 1 April 2003.
• Limit of four bags (liftable to shoulder level by one man) of soil, turf, bricks, rubble, tiles etc applies and is included in the overall limit of 8 items.
• If a customer has exceeded their limitation but has either a fridge, freezer, asbestos or other substance or item which they think may be hazardous, they should contact us for further advice on disposal.

To arrange a collection, please fill in the Special Collection Form or contact our Contact Centre on

0191 520 5503 or e-mail streetcare@sunderland.gov.uk 

Loose materials should be placed in suitable sacks or boxes capable of being lifted from ground level by members of the special collection crew. Heavy duty and refuse sacks may be purchased from our South Hylton Depot or Crowtree Leisure Centre. Excessive amounts, such as large trees may incur a charge for removal. You will be informed of any costs prior to collection.

You can help us by placing the items for collection on your property as close as possible to where the collection vehicle will park to collect and ensure there is adequate access to your property. The refuse collection team will only collect the items stated. This helps to ensure that we only take what you want us to.

Each area has a specific collection day once per week only. The time of collection will be between 0730hrs and 1530hrs on the specified day for your area. Please leave a telephone number where we can contact you during the working day following your request, to inform you of your collection day.

The Council also undertakes to dispose of unwanted vehicles with or without the registration documents.

Vehicle Disposal with Registration Document ( pdf 19kb)
Vehicle Disposal without Registration Document ( pdf 19kb)