From Monday 7th December 2026, anyone visiting Louth Recycling Centre will need a free booking. Bookings open on Monday 30th November, up to two weeks ahead, and Lincolnshire County Council says there will be enough slots for the number of people who use the site now.
For years, the tip has been a turn-up-and-go job. That ends in a few weeks, so it is worth getting used to the idea before the Christmas clear-out begins. It takes a couple of minutes, and a few details need to be to hand.
Why the Council Is Doing It
Lincolnshire's recycling centres are getting busier, and the council says too many vehicles tend to arrive at the same time. That causes queues inside the sites and, at some of them, traffic backing up on the roads outside. Booking is meant to spread visits through the day. The council is clear that it is not trying to put people off using the tip, and says it has planned enough capacity for current numbers.
How Booking Will Work
Bookings can be made online or by phone through the council's Customer Service Centre, which is there for anyone who cannot book online. You pick the recycling centre, a date and time, the type of vehicle you are bringing and the kinds of waste you have. The council says each booking gives you a 15-minute window to arrive in, and some slots will be kept back for same-day booking if there are any left.
You will need to give your name, an email address or phone number, your address and your vehicle registration. A confirmation arrives by email or text, with a way to change or cancel the booking if your plans shift. The council's own booking page has the link once booking opens.
Who Can Book
Anyone who pays Council Tax in Lincolnshire can book a slot at any of the county's sites, Louth included. That covers second-home owners who pay Council Tax on a property in the county, and new arrivals once they have moved in. A friend, relative or carer can book on your behalf, as long as the waste comes from a Lincolnshire household. Trade waste and commercial vehicles are still not accepted.
Vans, 4x4s and Trailers
The slots are for cars, vans and vehicles towing a trailer. The council's booking page says the old permit for vans, some 4x4s and larger trailers is no longer needed. Its own Louth page still mentions permits, so if you are bringing a van or trailer, check the latest wording on the council's website before you go.
Louth Recycling Centre Details
The centre is on Bolingbroke Road, Fairfield Industrial Estate, LN11 0WA. It is open from 9am to 4pm on Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and closed on Wednesday and Thursday. Aim to arrive before 3.50pm, because the gates can close a little early. It closes on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day. Our guide to Louth Recycling Centre has what you can take, and our wheelie bin guide helps with the kerbside side of things.
Tips for the First Few Weeks
Book before you load the car, and check the slot against the days the site is open. Pick a time you can realistically make, because the window is short. Because some slots are held back for same-day booking, you can also try on the morning if your plans change.