You need a permit if you want to use a van, pick‑up, or trailer (1.8m to 3m in length) at any Hampshire Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC). You can check if your vehicle needs a permit.
How to apply
Permits are digital and cost £20. You can apply using the link above.
Once you’ve applied and paid, your permit becomes active as soon as you receive confirmation (usually right after payment).
Paper permits issued before 11 February 2026
If you’re using a valid paper permit for trailers, you must show it on site. When you apply for your next permit, you’ll need to enter the registration of the towing vehicle.
If you’re using a valid paper permit for a van or pick-up, you don’t need to show it on site – they’ve been converted to digital.
What the permit allows
Your household can only hold one permit at a time. Each permit gives you up to 12 visits or lasts 12 months – whichever ends first.
You can hold up to two permits in a year. You can apply for a second permit once you have used your 12 visits. The same vehicle cannot be used for more than one households permit.
You can only dispose of household waste. If you need to dispose of trade or commercial waste, use the trade waste service.
For full details, read the van or trailer permits – terms and conditions.
Using your permit
Permits are digital. After you’ve applied and paid, your permit is active as soon as you receive your confirmation email.
When you book a visit, the system checks if your vehicle has a valid permit.
Each booking uses one of your 12 visits.
If you visit a HWRC more than once in a day, each visit counts separately.
You cannot use a towed trailer at Hayling Island HWRC or New Alresford HWRC due to limited space on site.
Changing your vehicle or address
You need to apply for a new permit and pay again if you:
- change your vehicle
- change your vehicle registration for your current vehicle
- change your address
If you sell your vehicle, don’t pass the permit on as this could impact your household’s DIY waste allowance.
Find out when you can get a refund in the van or trailer permits – terms and conditions.
Blue Badge holders
Blue Badge holders still need a permit to use a van, pick‑up or trailer.
You may not need a permit if you can show your vehicle has been adapted to accommodate your disability.
Contact us
If you live in Portsmouth resident (PO1-PO6 and some PO7 addresses) and you cannot use the booking or permit system online, call us on 023 9284 1105, and select option 5 for HWRC enquiries (including bookings and permits).