Booked visits: how the new system works at Dorchester, Wimborne, Shaftesbury and Sherborne HRCs

From Monday 23 March 2026, people visiting Dorset Council’s household recycling centres (HRCs, or “the tip”) in Dorchester, Wimborne, Shaftesbury and Sherborne will need to book a slot before they travel - and Dorset Council is setting out what residents can expect when they arrive under the new system.

Bookings are open now. A booking is needed if you are visiting these four sites by car, van, on foot or by bike.

Other Dorset recycling centres continue to operate as they do now for Dorset residents.

How to book

To book a visit, go to the Dorset Council website or search for the name of the HRC you wish to visit. Fill in the short online form with:

• your name and contact details
• which recycling centre you want to visit
• your vehicle registration number (if you are using a vehicle)
• the date and time slot you would like to come.

If you cannot book online, you can use our phone booking service by calling 01305 221037 and following the instructions.

You will be given a 30‑minute arrival window and can arrive at any time during that slot. There is no need to be there exactly at the start time.

If you are bringing DIY waste (for example rubble, tiles or bathroom fittings) to any Dorset Council recycling centre and want to use your free DIY waste allowance, you must book a slot.

Anyone can use our household recycling centres for household waste. However, if you live outside of the Dorset Council area you will be required to pay a non-refundable fee of £8.50. Payment is made online when booking your slot.

What to bring

Please bring proof of the address you booked under, such as a driving licence, recent utility bill or council tax bill. Digital copies are also acceptable. Staff will carry out occasional spot checks at the entrance to make sure bookings are being used by the correct household and to keep the service fair.

Have your booking confirmation (for example an email or text) ready in case staff need to check it.

What to expect on site

When you arrive at Dorchester, Wimborne, Shaftesbury or Sherborne recycling centre, follow the signs and stop where indicated at the entrance.

A camera will automatically check your vehicle number plate against the booking log:

• If a booking is found, the light will turn green and you can enter when it is safe and use the site as normal.
• If a booking is not found, the light will flash amber and you will be asked to drive into the site and speak to a member of staff.

If you arrive on foot or by bike, please speak to a member of staff at the entrance so they can check your booking and guide you safely onto the site.

Cllr Jon Andrews, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Place Services, said “Our new booking system is now in place at four of our household recycling centres, and we know many people want to understand exactly how it works.

“By asking residents to book ahead, we can manage these sites more smoothly and make visits more predictable. The camera and light system at the entrance will help keep traffic moving steadily, and our teams will be there to support anyone who needs help. If you are not confident using the online form, you can also use our phone booking service.”

For more information about the new booking system - including which sites need a booking, DIY waste rules and information for visitors from outside Dorset - visit the Dorset Council website.