Edinburgh tip booking: how it works
Edinburgh tips are appointment only. Here's how booking works, checked against City of Edinburgh Council pages on 30 October 2026.
- You must book an appointment before you go. Walk-ins are turned away
- Appointments are 30 minutes. Arrive at least 10 minutes before the end of it
- Only Edinburgh residents can book, and only the booked vehicle gets in
- Same-day slots are often free after cancellations
- You can walk or cycle in without booking with small amounts, except at Craigmillar
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The rules
- You must be a resident of the City of Edinburgh to book
- Appointments last 30 minutes
- Arrive no later than 10 minutes before the end of your visit
- The site checks your vehicle registration and lets in only booked vehicles
- A confirmation email is sent once you book, and it can be delayed or land in spam
- Staff cannot help unload, so only bring what you can carry
What to bring
For a car, the page does not list documents. For a van or trailer you must bring the email confirming the booking and photo ID that proves you are from the City of Edinburgh Council area, such as a driving licence, a passport or a National Entitlement Card. If your photo ID does not show your address, combine it with a Council Tax bill, bank statement or utility bill. The name on both must match. For a hire van, the policy says to show the hire paperwork and two forms of identification. See the van and trailer rules guide.
On foot or by bike
The council says you do not need to book if you come on foot or by pedal bike with small amounts of materials. Pedestrian access at Craigmillar is currently suspended for safety reasons.
Cancelling
The council has a form on its booking page for cancelling a visit. The page gives no cancellation deadline and no phone number, so cancel as early as you can so someone else can use the slot.
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.
Skip the booking?
A licensed Edinburgh company can collect from your home, with no appointment to make.
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