Important changes to black bag collections as new recycling service rolls out

Residents across Carmarthenshire are being reminded that recycling and waste collection days may change for households across the county from Monday 2 November 2026. The changes coincide with the introduction of the new Separated Recycling Service, which will initially be rolled out mainly across western Carmarthenshire.

Homes will receive a letter this month confirming any changes to their collection days, along with a new collections calendar. Residents are being encouraged to check this information carefully ahead of the changes taking effect.

To help homes adjust to the new arrangements, residents whose first black bag collection, under the new schedule, falls during the weeks beginning 9 November or 16 November 2026 will be allowed to present up to four black bags for collection. This is a one-off allowance to help residents adjust to the new collection arrangements.

From the week beginning 23 November 2026, the standard limit of three black bags per collection will apply to all homes in the county.

Residents are advised to check their new collections calendar to find out when their first black bag collection is due under the new schedule.

A small number of homes will have a gap of more than three weeks between their final black bag collection, under the current schedule, and their first collection under the new schedule. Where this applies, an additional black bag collection will be provided. Affected homes will be contacted via a letter and do not need to contact the Council.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, Waste and Infrastructure Services, Cllr Edward Thomas, said:

As we roll out our new Separated Recycling service, we want to make the transition as smooth as possible for residents. We are therefore introducing a temporary four-bag allowance for some homes whose black bag collection falls on the weeks commencing 9 and 16 November, and providing a one-off additional collection for some homes. We would encourage everyone to check the information sent to them and make a note of their new collection dates.”

Residents can sign up to receive free email or text message reminders for their recycling and waste collections here.

For more information and to check your collection days, please click here.

The Council is encouraging residents to share this information with family, friends and neighbours who may rely on others for important updates.