Bristol tip booking: how to book a slot

Bristol tips ask you to book a slot first. Here's how it works, checked against Bristol City Council and Bristol Waste Company pages on 30 October 2026.

Who has to book

Most visitors. The council says cyclists do not need to book, and neither do people visiting Hartcliffe Way on foot. A visit to a reuse shop only does not need a booking. Booking became compulsory on 6 June 2022.

How to book

1. Use the online "Book a slot" link on the council page, or go to the council booking page
2. Choose your tip, a date and a time. You can book up to 2 weeks ahead, or 1 hour before if slots are available
3. Register the vehicle you will arrive in
4. Or phone 0117 922 2100, Monday to Friday 8.30am to 6pm (the line closes from midday to 1.30pm on Wednesdays)

On the day

• Arrive about 5 minutes before your slot starts
• Arrive in the vehicle you registered when you booked
• Bring photo ID and proof of residence. Staff may check bags
• Sort your materials before you get there, because mixed loads may need sorting on site
• Children under 16 should stay in the vehicle

Hire vehicles

Choose the hire vehicle option when you book. A hire van or trailer on a hire of 3 days or less does not need a permit. If the hire is longer than 3 days, the council says you cannot use it to visit the tips. Bring the hire agreement, a council tax or utility bill in your name from the last 3 months, and your photo card driving licence. Car Club and Zipvan users only need proof of address. See the van permit guide for owned vans, and hire vans at Bristol tips for more on hires.

Cancelling

Use the link in your confirmation email, and cancel early so the slot can go to someone else. For a van or pick-up on a permit, the permit page says to cancel at least 2 hours before the booking, or the visit counts towards your 12 a year.

Can't get a slot? See what to do if there is no tip slot free. A licensed company can also collect from your door: rubbish removal or single item removal.