Report Missed Bin Collection
Waste collections occur anytime between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM on the day of service. A service is not considered 'missed' until after 6:00 PM. You can place your bins out the night before collection days (i.e Tuesday night for Wednesday collections). Collections occur as scheduled on public holidays.
Waste collection vehicles may be delayed by road closures or traffic congestion, mechanical fault, etc. Do not rely on a set collection time for your address.
Reasons why your bin may have been missed include:
- Bin was not presented before 6AM (or removed before 6PM)
- Lid is open and bin is overfull
- Too close to obstructions (parked cars, overhanging branches or other objects)
- Bin weights more than 70kg
- Bin has incorrect items placed inside
Please report any missed collection within 24 hours to Customer Service:
To report a missed collection phone Customer Service: by phone 1300 69 22 47 within 24 hours of the missed service.
Ensure bin/s are:
- Kerbside before 6am on the day of collection
- Positioned on the footpath next to the kerb, handle towards the house
- Placed at least 50cm apart
- Not overfilled and the lid fully closes
- Not overloaded (maximum weight is 70 kilograms)
- Not contaminated with unaccepted items - view Council's acceptable recycling and waste items ( PDF, 0.28 MB )
Additional collection of residential waste and recycling bins can be ordered by completing the extra bin collection request form. Please note a fee of $28.00 applies per service.
View Council's bin collections and service page for further information, or download the how to ensure your bin gets collected flyer. ( PDF, 1.26 MB )
Last Updated: 30 June 2026
Latest News > All News
Council's voice on State planning reforms
Cairns Regional Council has advocated for planning approaches that support housing and economic growth while protecting the values important to...
12 November 2026
Temporary ferris wheel being dismantled
The temporary ferris wheel on the Cairns Esplanade is being removed today as part of necessary storm season preparations....
12 November 2026
Major events deliver $29.9 million boost for Cairns
An exciting combination of iconic sporting events and world-class cultural entertainment has strengthened Cairns’ reputation as a premier destination for...
11 November 2026