The telephone number for the Member Support Team is 03000 268 823

We are the lead local flood authority and the 'operating authority' for all ordinary watercourses in County Durham.

We have powers to require the maintenance of watercourses to ensure they are operating efficiently and must approve any works to or in our watercourses.

Land drainage

Land drainage is the disposal of rainwater, achieved by a network of various types of watercourse. The laws relating to land drainage are not very well known and many people are unaware of their existence.

Main rivers and ordinary watercourses - the difference

Major watercourses and rivers are designated as main rivers. These are under the control of the Environment Agency who are the relevant operating authority. We can advise you which are the main rivers, but all enquiries relating to the operation of main rivers will be referred to the Environment Agency.

Almost all other watercourses, including streams, ditches (whether dry or not), ponds, culverts, drains, pipes and any other passage through which water may flow, are defined as ordinary watercourses. We are the operating authority for ordinary watercourses. Exceptions to this are:

• Public surface water sewers - these are the responsibility of the sewerage undertaker, Northumbrian Water.
• Highway drains on public highways - these are maintained by us or the Highways Agency.

If you own a riverside property you can find more information about your responsibilities on our managing the county's flood risk page.

Operation of land drainage network

There are a number of pieces of legislation to ensure that the land drainage network operates correctly.

• If a riparian owner fails to carry out his responsibilities or if anyone else causes a watercourse to become blocked or obstructed, we have powers of enforcement by serving a notice under Section 28 of the Land Drainage Act. If this is ignored, we may carry out the necessary work ourselves and then recharge the person responsible for the full cost incurred. The person responsible may also be prosecuted for nuisance under the Public Health Act 1936.
• Anyone wishing to carry out work in, over or adjacent to an ordinary watercourse must apply to us for consent. This is so we can assess the proposals for their effect on the drainage network and environment. contact us for advice.

Consents required for work affecting watercourses

If you wish to place, construct or alter anything such as a dam, weir, headwall or culvert which may affect the flow in a watercourse, you must get our written consent. Please contact us to discuss your proposal before submitting your application. An application fee of £50.00 is required to cover our costs for examining the proposals. Please note, these consents are in addition to any planning or building regulation approvals you may need.

Failure to apply for consent

If you carry out work without first obtaining formal written consent, we can serve a notice requiring you to stop work within a specified time. If you fail to comply with the notice then we may carry out the necessary work ourselves and recharge the person responsible for the full cost incurred, or we can take the matter to court where a fine may be imposed.

Other relevant legislation

• Discharge: Certain discharges to watercourses require consent. This includes outfalls from septic tanks and private sewerage treatment plants.
• Planning: If you propose to discharge surface water from a new building or development into an existing watercourse, you may be required to make improvements downstream (to enable the watercourse to deal with any increased flow) or to provide storage to control the rate of flow from the site.

Contact us for further advice on the above.

Roadside ditches

The riparian owner of a ditch alongside a road is normally the adjoining landowner, as the highway boundary invariably lies along the top of the bank closest to the road. Therefore, although the road may drain into the ditch, the landowner is responsible for maintaining it.

However, if we have piped the ditch, we may become responsible for its maintenance. Likewise, any pipe beneath the highway is our responsibility. When the condition of a ditch is causing flooding on a highway, we will take action under the Land Drainage Act.

Information on who to contact regarding issues affecting public rights of way or other paths.

How to report fly tipping and antisocial behaviour

Rubbish and fly tipping on public rights of way should be reported by calling our Customer Services team.

Antisocial behaviour on paths, such as unauthorised use by motorbikes or quad bikes should be reported to the police. Although this is a recognised problem on the rights of way network, we have no specific powers to take enforcement action against offenders.

How to report issues on public rights of way

Please contact us at Access and Rights of Way. To help us investigate your problem please provide us with as much information as possible:

• Your contact details.
• Location of where the problem was found (the path number can be found by using our Definitive Public Rights of Way map online, or an address or grid reference will help us to identify the location).
• The date, type and description of problem found.
• Landowner details (if known).
• Map showing location of the problem.
• Photographs of the problem found (if any available).
• Access and Rights of Way
• @ email Access and Rights of Way
• Telephone 03000 265 342
• Post Our address is:
  Regeneration and Economic Development
  Durham County Hall
  Durham
  County Durham
  DH1 5UQ

Reporting problems on pavements

You can use the Report a problem with a road or pavement to report a problem on a footway or pavement.

Volunteering

If you want to get involved doing practical work or inspecting paths take a look at the Countryside Volunteering and the Parish Paths Partnership (P3) pages.

The 2017 scheme starts in March and runs until November.

The first collections will take place week commencing 28th March and the final collections will be made week commencing 6th November.

DCC Website - Waste permit scheme

If you are visiting a Household Waste Recycling Centre (tip) with a van, pickup, minibus or you are towing a trailer you will need a waste permit. You can apply for up to three permits at one time.

How to use your waste permit?

A single waste permit is required per visit, which you hand to a member of staff when you arrive. There are three types of permit.

Mixed waste permit - If you apply for three in one go they must be used within one 28 day period.

Garden waste permit - If you are disposing of garden waste only (including leaves, pruning, grass cuttings, branches, trees) you can pre book when you would like to visit the sites when you apply. If you apply for three each one will be valid for 28 days from the date you request.

Household hazardous waste permit - This permit can only be used at specially licensed recycling sites. Find out more about what you need a Household hazardous waste permit for, which sites accept this waste and how to apply.

Apply for a waste permit 

Complete the mixed waste permit or garden waste permit form before noon on a weekday and your permits will either be:

Posted to you on the same day (second class post), or be available for collection from your nearest customer access point (please allow one hour for your request to be processed).

Complete the household hazardous waste permit for use at specially licensed recycling sites.

You can also:

• Call us with your details and we'll send the permits to you in the post. 
• Call us with your details and  then collect your permit/s from your nearest customer access point. (Please allow one hour for your request to be processed).
• Visit your nearest customer access point before 4pm and have a permit issued while you wait.

Only certain types of vehicles can enter a  Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC). Download Who needs a waste permit? (PDF, 68kb) which provides more information on whether your vehicle can enter the site. 

Waste permit rules and conditions of use

Make sure you read through and understand the following:

Before you apply

• Mixed waste permits are for household waste only. Any potentially hazardous waste such as chemicals, paint or asbestos require a household hazardous waste permit.
• Permits are not issued for commercial waste, which includes waste from landlords from their tenanted properties. If you're a landlord, please see Waste from landlords on how to dispose of your waste.
• If it's waste from home DIY projects you are limited to 12 permits per year.
• You must give specific details of the waste - 'DIY waste' or 'household waste' is not sufficient description.
• Permits are for County Durham residents only.
• Permits can be used for one visit only.
• Expired permits can be reissued by calling customer services.
• Your application will be delayed if you do not complete it in full.

Before you set off to the HWRC (tip)

• A maximum limit of one tonne of waste applies to each permit.
• The person whose name and address is on the permit must be present at the HWRC, even if someone else is driving. You may be asked for ID such as a driving licence or bank card.
• There is no pedestrian access to HWRCs.

Why do we operate a permit scheme for household waste?

Our permit scheme was introduced to prevent commercial and trade waste from being illegally taken to our HWRCs.

http://www.durham.gov.uk/article/2738/Barnard-Castle-Customer-Access-Point

http://www.durham.gov.uk/article/2740/Chester-le-Street-Customer-Access-Point

http://www.durham.gov.uk/article/2741/Consett-Customer-Access-Point

http://www.durham.gov.uk/article/2742/Crook-Customer-Access-Point

http://www.durham.gov.uk/article/2743/Durham-City-Customer-Access-Point

http://www.durham.gov.uk/article/2744/Seaham-Customer-Access-Point

http://www.durham.gov.uk/article/2745/Spennymoor-Customer-Access-Point

http://www.durham.gov.uk/article/2746/Stanley-Customer-Access-Point

http://www.durham.gov.uk/article/2747/County-Hall

DCC website - HWRC locations and opening hours

http://www.durham.gov.uk/media/8639/Household-Waste-Recycling-Centre-information/pdf/HouseholdWasteRecyclingCentresLeaflet.pdf

http://www.durham.gov.uk/article/1885/Household-hazardous-waste

Shortened Terms and Conditions

T&Cs short version

• Cancellation requests must be made in writing within 14 days after which there will be no refund.
• The collection service is for your current home and does not transfer if you move.
• You will need to leave your bin at your old address and sign up again at your new home.
• Your bin must be at your regular collection point at 7am on the morning of your collection day. If you have an assisted collection you garden waste bin will automatically be included.
• Contaminated garden waste bins (i.e. bins containing incorrect materials) will not be emptied. This may be the case for overflowing/overweight bins.  
• There may be exceptional circumstances when your garden waste bin cannot be emptied i.e. during inclement weather, flooding or strikes. If this happens there will be no refund.

http://www.durham.gov.uk/media/8473/Refuse-and-Recycling-Collections-Policy/pdf/RefuseAndRecyclingPolicyOctober2015.pdf

http://www.durham.gov.uk/media/5593/Bin-it-right---Guide-to-recycling-at-home/pdf/GuideToRecyclingAtHome1.pdf

DCC website - Bulky Waste

If you've got large items (bulky waste) to dispose of like furniture or white goods, or DIY waste like baths or radiators, which are too big to fit into your bin, we can take it away for a fee.

Contact us to get a quote for your collection items.

Collection feesFrom 1 April 2016 to 31 March 2017

The cost of this service depends on what the item is and how many items you would like taken away.

A list of prices and some examples of what we can remove is shown below.

£15.00 (minimum charge) - up to six items of domestic non-DIY waste 

Examples

£30.00 (minimum charge) - up to six items of domestic DIY waste*

Examples

Six bags of household wasteBathChildren's toysFlooringWardrobes, beds, sofa and carpetsCentral heating boiler/radiatorsElectrical/white goods such as a fridge/freezer or washing machine 

*Even if you only have one item of DIY waste, you will still have to pay the higher charge.

Download further information about the items we collect:

• List of DIY bulky waste items collected (PDF, 156kb)
• List of non-DIY bulky waste items collected (PDF, 151kb)

LINK TO WEBSITE How much does a certificate cost?

The following costs are for copies of certificates issued from the local registrar's office:

• £4: this covers a certificate that is issued at the time of the registration.
• £7: this covers a certificate that is issued after the time of registration, but where the register is still in the local office.

The following costs are for copies of certificates held in the central repository at Bishop Auckland:

• £10: standard service - collection in person after a minimum of 5 working days
• £12: standard service - despatched within 5 working days using 2nd class post
• £20: priority service - certificate available for collection on the same day from Bishop Auckland Registrar's Office or posted the same day via 1st class post
• £25: guaranteed next day postal service - requests received before 2.00pm
• £12: outside of the UK, we aim to deliver within 28 days

LINK TO WEBSITE How to find a certificate online

We currently have more than 1.2 million records indexed on system. We only hold birth, marriages and death registrations relating to the current geographical boundaries of County Durham. Areas that are no longer part of County Durham, such as Sunderland, South Tyneside, Gateshead, Hartlepool, Stockton and Darlington can be found by contacting the relevant local council.

What indexes are held online?

• Marriage indexes: 1837-2012
• Death indexes: 1991-2012
• Birth indexes: many of our indexes are available
• Civil partnerships: we don't have any of these indexes online

Registrars Certificates online - link to site

LINK TO WEBSITE - Getting Married

Before you can marry there are certain formalities that are required by law. You need to make an appointment for both partners to attend the register office so you can inform them of your intention to marry.

Notice of marriage

'Giving notice' is a legal procedure by which you declare your freedom to marry each other. Giving notice requires your signature and therefore cannot be done by a friend or relative. Formal notice of marriage must be given to the superintendent registrar in the registration district(s) where the parties to the marriage live regardless of where the marriage is to take place.

What documents will I need?

The documents required are:

• A valid passport or a full birth certificate (showing parent's details).
• Proof of address (a bank statement dated within one month, a utility bill dated within 3 months or a council tax bill dated within 12 months).
• If applicable, a decree absolute or death certificate for any previous marriage. For a previous civil partnership, we require a dissolution document.
• Any name change document if you have legally changed your name since birth.

Giving notice

You may give notice up to one year before your wedding day.

Both parties to the marriage must have lived in a registration district in England or Wales for at least seven consecutive days before giving the formal notice of marriage. It does not matter if you move from these addresses once the notice(s) has been given.

Once the notice(s) has been given you cannot change the venue of the marriage without giving a new notice and paying another fee.

If the parties live in different districts, notice must be given in both districts. If the marriage is to be in a district in which neither of the parties live, then the parties must first ascertain whether they will be able to be married when they wish.

The notice(s) will be displayed on the notice board at the register office for a period of 28 days. After this period, an authority for the marriage can be issued.

If the marriage is to take place at a different district to where notice of marriage was given, the certificate must be collected from the office where the notice was given and delivered to the office where the marriage is to take place. If both parties live within the district where the marriage is to take place and notice has been given there, no certificate has to be collected.

It is essential that the registrar has possession of the authority or authorities before the marriage, otherwise the marriage may well be delayed or even postponed.

A fee of £35.00 is payable for each notice of marriage

LINK TO WEBSITE - Getting married

Marrying in a church

If you are planning a church wedding, you must see the minister of the church in the registration district where you live. Unless your marriage is to be according to the rites and ceremonies of the Church of England or Wales, where banns are usually read, you will be required to give notice to the superintendent registrar in whose district you reside.

Usually you must live in the district where you plan to marry unless your place of worship is outside the district and you wish to marry there. You may also marry outside the district if there is no building of your religion in your district. In some cases a local registrar may need to attend the service. It is advisable that you check this and confirm the availability before you set a date.

Fees

1 April 2016 - 31 March 2017 (if you require a Registrar to attend):

• Booking fee of £35.00
• Monday to Friday £90
• Saturday Sunday and bank holiday £425.00
• The fee includes 1 marriage certificate

Marrying in approved premises

There are now venues in England and Wales other than a register office or religious building where you can get married, for example civic buildings or hotels. Gov.uk provides a list of approved premises for marriages and civil partnerships in England and Wales or see our approved premises for marriages and civil partnerships in County Durham.

Fees

1 April 2016 - 31 March 2017:

• £395 - Monday to Thursday
• £425 - Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• £495 - public holiday weekend (Saturday, Sunday and Monday)

A non-refundable £35.00 booking fee applies to all new ceremony bookings - this is in addition to the fees outlined above. Changes to ceremony bookings at these venues will result in another £35.00 booking fee becoming payable.

1 April 2017 - 31 March 2018:

• £400 - Monday to Thursday
• £435 - Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• £500 - public holiday weekend (Saturday, Sunday and Monday)

A non-refundable £40.00 booking fee applies to all new ceremony bookings - this is in addition to the fees outlined above. Changes to ceremony bookings at these venues will result in another £40.00 booking fee becoming payable.

This fee needs to be paid to the superintendent registrar at least six weeks before the ceremony is due to take place.

Marrying in a register office

Every register office is different and usually has its own character. In County Durham, marriage facilities are located in the register offices at Aykley Heads House (Durham), Bishop Auckland and Barnard Castle. A registrar in each location will be happy to show you the ceremony room before making your choice of location.

Fees

1 April 2016 - 31 March 2017:

Barnard Castle (holds 34 guests), Bishop Auckland (holds 25 guests), Aykley Heads House Durham City - Durham Room (holds 30 guests) and staircase (holds 16 guests)

• £150 - Monday to Thursday
• £250 - Friday
• £265 - Saturday
• £330- Sunday/public holiday

Aykley Heads House Durham City - main ceremony room (holds 55 guests)

• £195 - Monday to Thursday
• £250 - Friday
• £265 - Saturday
• £330 - Sunday/public holiday

​A non-refundable £35.00 booking fee applies to all new ceremony bookings - this is in addition to the fees outlined above. Changes to ceremony bookings at these venues will result in another £35.00 booking fee becoming payable. 

A ceremony can also be held at Bishop Auckland Register Office Monday to Thursday mornings only for a fee of £46.00 plus £4.00 for the marriage certificate.  This is a registration ceremony with only the couple and 2 witnesses.

1 April 2017 - 31 March 2018:

Barnard Castle (holds 34 guests), Bishop Auckland (holds 25 guests), Aykley Heads House Durham City - Durham Room (holds 30 guests) and staircase (holds 16 guests)

• £155 - Monday to Thursday
• £255 - Friday
• £270 - Saturday
• £335 - Sunday/public holiday

Aykley Heads House Durham City - main ceremony room (holds 55 guests)

• £225 - Monday to Thursday
• £255 - Friday
• £270 - Saturday
• £335 - Sunday/public holiday

A non-refundable £40.00 booking fee applies to all new ceremony bookings - this is in addition to the fees outlined above. Changes to ceremony bookings at these venues will result in another £40.00 booking fee becoming payable.

A ceremony can also be held at Bishop Auckland Register Office Monday to Thursday mornings only for a fee of £46.00 plus £4.00 for the marriage certificate.  This is a registration ceremony with only the couple and 2 witnesses.

LINK TO WEBSITE - Registering a birth

By law you must register a baby's birth within 42 days. Registering a birth is free and if born within County Durham can be done at any register office within the county.

However, actual birth certificates can only be issued by a registrar in whose district the birth occurred.

Who can register a birth?

If the mother and father are married to each other at the time of the child's birth, either parent may register the birth. If the mother and father are not married to each other at the time of the child's birth, the mother alone may register the birth, however, the father's details can only be entered in the register if he is also present at the time of registration.

Where can I register?

You may register the birth of your child in any Register Office within the county of Durham. All offices operate an appointment system so it is important that you contact us by telephone in advance to make an appointment.

Actual birth certificates can only be issued by a registrar in whose district the birth has occurred. Where the birth has occurred outside of County Durham, a registrar can take details of the birth, ie a birth declaration, and forward the details to the appropriate office. The certificate will then be sent to you by post.

What will I need to register a birth?

When you attend the Register Office, the registrar will ask you for the name, date of birth, place of birth and sex of the child. Similar personal details relating to the mother will also be required including occupation.

By law you must register a baby's birth within 42 days. Registering a birth is free. The registrar will give you a short birth certificate showing the baby's name, sex and date of birth. You will also have the opportunity to purchase a full birth certificate (copy of the entry in the register) for a small fee.

ChargesFee for a birth certificate

After a birth has been registered, a short birth certificate showing the name, sex, date and district of birth is issued free of charge. The short certificate meets most ordinary needs but a full birth certificate, which is a complete copy of the register entry, is also available. Further short certificates and full certificates may be purchased at the time of registration or at any time afterwards.

Standard certificate

• From a registrar of births and death's current register at the time of registration - £4.00
• From a registrar of births and death's current register after the time of registration - £7.00
• From a superintendent registrar's deposited register - £11.50 (includes £1.50 handling charge although higher fees are applicable if you require service whilst you wait, priority or guaranteed next day delivery service).   

Short certificate

• From a registrar of birth's and death's current register at the time of registration - £4.00
• From a registrar of birth's and death's current register after the time of registration - £7.00
• From a Superintendent Registrar's deposited register - £10 (collection in person) or £12 (2nd class post)  

LINK TO WEBSITE - Register offices

We operate from a number of register offices throughout the county.

Some offices are open on a full-time basis and others on a part-time basis. All register offices follow an appointment system, but times and availability may vary during the year.

Aykley Heads House (ceremony room facilities available)

Barnard Castle (ceremony room facilities available)

Bishop Auckland (ceremony room facilities available)

Chester-le-Street 

Consett

Crook

Seaham

Stanhope

Stanley

LINK TO WEBSITE - Registering a death

Information about registering a death.

This should normally be done within five days unless a coroner is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death.

Where do I register a death?

You may register a death in any Register Office within County Durham. All appointments must be booked in advance so it is important that you contact us beforehand.

By law a death must be registered in the registration district where it occurred. However, you can visit any Register Office in England or Wales and give details and these will be passed to the appropriate district. Registering a death outside the area where it occurred will result in a delay in receiving the death certificate.

Who may register a death?

One of the following persons has a legal obligation to register the death:

• a relative of the deceased
• a person present at the death
• a person arranging the funeral (not the undertaker)
• a person who is a registered civil partner
• In certain circumstances others, such as the administrator of an elderly person's home can register a death

When does a death need to be registered?

The death must normally be registered within five days unless a coroner is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. You can also tell most government departments about a death in one go using the Gov.uk: tell us once service.

What will I need to bring with me?

You will need to bring a medical certificate of the cause of death issued by a doctor who has attended the deceased. If the death has been referred to a coroner, the coroner's officer will advise you what to do. It is useful to have the birth certificate or passport of the deceased with you, but it is not essential.

Will I receive any documents on completing the registration?

Yes, the registrar will issue you with a form to take to the undertaker (in some cases it may be issued by the coroner). You will also be given another form, which should be taken or forwarded to the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), in respect of state pensions and benefits.

I may need to purchase death certificates for other purposes. Can I obtain these?

Yes. The standard death certificate can be shown to banks, building societies, insurance companies, the post office, company pension schemes and used as a record of the death for family members.

ChargesFees for a death certificate

After a death has been registered, one or more certificates may be purchased at the time of registration or at any time afterwards. The fees are currently: 

• From a Registrar of Births and Deaths current register at the time of registration - £4.00
• From a Registrar of Births and Deaths current register after the time of registration - £7.00 
• From a Superintendent Registrar's deposited register - £10 (collection in person) or £12 (2nd class post)  

Fee for a copy of a certificate

• How much does a copy of a certificate cost?

LINK TO WEBSITE - Burial fees

This page contains information on the costs associated with funeral services.

VAT is not included in the following costs, unless otherwise stated as burials and associated expenses are exempt. For further information, please contact us and we can provide you with information and advice on funeral expenses.

Burial fees

Price 2016/2017

Exclusive right of burial (inc headstone fees) - resident

£1100.00

Exclusive right of burial ½ plot (inc headstone fees) - resident

£660.00

Exclusive right of burial (inc headstone fees) - non resident

£2200.00

Exclusive right of burial ½ plot (inc headstone fees) - non resident

£1300.00

Interment of child up to 16 years old

-

Interment of person whose age exceeded 16 years - resident

£780.00

Interment of person whose age exceeded 16 years - non resident

£1550.00

Interment of person whose age exceeded 16 years - Saturday

£1170.00

Interment of cremated remains - resident

£210.00

Interment of cremated remains - non resident

£420.00

Interment of cremated remains - Saturday

£310.00

Memorial fees

Price 2016/2017

Erection of headstone fee

£250.00

Tablets, Plaques, Flat Stones on memorial walls

£125.00

Vases (permanent)

£80.00

Additional inscriptions

£70.00

Replacement headstones

£70.00

Kerbs (in certain cemeteries)

£355.00

Kerbs ½ grave plot (in certain cemeteries)

£178.00

Erection of headstone where no exclusive right purchased (50+ years old)

£250.00

Erection of headstone where no exclusive of right purchased (25-50 years old)

£800.00

Miscellaneous fees

Price 2016/2017

Cemetery searches

£25.00

Grave selection fee

£50.00

Transfer of ownership (change deed holders)

£70.00

Copy of deed

£25.00

Chapel of Rest per day (Chester-le-Street only)

£150.00

Cremation burial fees

Price 2016/2017

Columbarium Unit for maximum of 2 interments (20y lease)

£1120.00

Plaque inclusive of 80 letters inclusive of VAT

£120.00

Additional letter at £1.30 each plus VAT

£1.56

Re-opening for second interment (re:Columbarium)

£50.00

Plus second inscription at £1.30 per letter plus VAT

£1.56

Removal and replacement of tablet inclusive of VAT (re: Columbarium)

£30.00

Please note: Erection of headstone, plaque and vase fees apply in Derwentside area if grave rights were purchased before 1 April 2007 and in all other districts if purchased before 1 April 2009.

Independent funeral options

Find our more about independent funeral options and pricing for your area at Your Funeral Choice.

Street lighting energy reduction project - lighting upgrades

We are carrying out a programme to upgrade more than 41,000 (revised to 55,000 in October 2015) street lights across the county. We will replace existing light fittings with the latest light emitting diode (LED) lights which will reduce energy consumption by up to two thirds.

The programme is part of the Street Lighting Energy Reduction Project which will reduce carbon emissions and save almost £24 million over 25 years.

What's happening?

The programme started in June 2013 and replacement works will take place at various locations around the county over six years. Existing street lamps will be replaced with a new LED light fitting. There may be occasional instances where we need to carry out additional work such as repairing or replacing a lighting column. The column will remain in the same location.

Open CloseStreet Lighting Energy Reduction Project video

Hear how our Street Lighting Energy Reduction Project is cutting carbon emissions and helping save nearly £24m.

About the new lightingStreet light before the upgradeStreet light after the upgrade

LED lighting is much more energy efficient and has a longer life span than traditional street lighting. The new lights produce white light which allows objects and people to be identified more easily compared with the light from a traditional lamp. They are also fitted with technology which allows the street light to be dimmed overnight when there are fewer vehicles and pedestrians around.

Street Lighting Plan (PDF, 1Mb)

Removals

As part of the project we have been identifying street lights in the county which may be considered suitable for removal. These lights are most likely to be on traffic routes in rural areas between towns and villages. We estimate there are 7,000 (revised to 3,000 in October 2015) street lights in the county that are suitable for removal.

Where it has been identified that existing street lighting is not required we will carry out a full risk assessment to determine whether it is safe to remove it. The risk assessment will take account of road safety records and fear of crime issues. We will only remove street lights where it is safe to do so and will not remove street lights from residential areas.

This programme will take place over a six year period.

Frequently asked questionsIs every street light being upgraded?

No. We have carried out technical and financial assessments on all street lights and have identified 41,000 that are suitable for replacement.

Will the street lights be switched off while the work is taking place?

No. the existing street light will remain lit until the energy supply is switched across to the new light.

Will there be any differences to the lighting?

The new lights will concentrate light on the road and footpath areas and will reduce light pollution of surrounding areas.

What are the energy savings?

A typical existing street light uses 90 watts whereas an LED street light uses 30 watts for the same light output.

Cabinet report 

An updated Cabinet report was published in October 2015 to highlight a number of revisions and updates to the street lighting energy reduction project.

Street lighting energy reduction project - update

Document for installations and specs of street lights

DCC website - Litter

SLA CLEARENCE - ASAP

Help tackle litter in your local area and keep County Durham clean. Always place your litter in a bin or take it home. Please encourage your family and friends to do the same.

If you're caught dropping litter you can be fined

Dropping litter (such as paper, cans, tins, bottles, cigarette ends/packets, chewing gum and food packaging) in a public place is an offence, under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Anyone dropping litter can be issued with a fixed penalty notice of £80, and if taken to court, the maximum fine is £2,500. 

Report litter

Report litter online or contact us. Please give as much information as possible, such as: date and time of litter incident, location and description of the person dropping litter or area where litter is causing an issue.

All reports are dealt with in confidence.

Next steps

Neighbourhood wardens will make enquiries and take the necessary action against the offender. We aim to respond to all litter reports by arranging for it to be cleaned up and/or arranging for an officer to patrol the areas in an effort to catch the offenders.

DCC website - litterLitter bins - SLA ASAP TO EMPTY A FULL BIN

We provide litter bins throughout the county and empty them on a regular basis. Litter bins can be used for both litter and dog waste. If you would like to request a new litter bin, or have noticed problems with a bin, please contact us.

Tidy Ted - education and engagement

Our anti-litter mascot, Tidy Ted, also helps us to engage with children and educate about correct litter disposal.

Litter campaigns

We support LitterFree Durham's annual Big Spring Clean campaign, which encourages people to take part in litter-picks across County Durham.

Driving out car litter in County Durham 

A three week multi-agency car litter campaign took place between 12 and 30 October 2015. The aim of the campaign was to change behaviour and encourage people to dispose of their car litter responsibly.

Throughout the campaign period, the Civic Pride Team and Neighbourhood wardens engaged with residents, children, young people and motorists, including:

• 2,593 children across ten primary schools
• 320 young people across four Sixth Form and Further Education Colleges
• 20 fast food outlets
• 172 driving instructors (targeting young or new drivers)
• 22 MOT test centres across the county
• 23 car dealerships across the county
• 6 petrol stations across the county

In addition, 31 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) and 29 advisory letters were issued to those observed throwing litter from vehicles. A further 13 incidents were investigated further by neighbourhood wardens.

Report car thrown litter

You can report car thrown litter all year round. Report litter online or contact us.

DCC Website - Big Spring Clean

Our popular community litter-pick campaign runs every spring in partnership with LitterFree Durham and Darlington Borough Council.

Big Spring Clean 2016 campaign

Litter not only blights the environment and makes areas look untidy; it also affects natural habitats and wildlife. 

The partnership litter pick campaign took place from 29 February to 17 April. The aim was to improve local environments by encouraging and supporting residents and volunteers to organise litter picks throughout County Durham and Darlington. 

Results from the campaign - Durham and Darlington combined

• 187 litter picks took place
• 2,581 people took part
• 4,982 volunteer hours contributed to the campaign
• 2,478 bags of litter were collected in total

The Environment Agency used specialist equipment to remove a tree and other debris, weighing 2.5 tonnes, from the River Gaunless, Bishop Auckland. In addition, volunteers from the Skill Mill and the council's Clean and Green and Civic Pride Team removed 30 bags of rubbish from the riverbanks.

Thank you to everyone who took part and helped to make this year's Big Spring Clean was even bigger! 

Litter picks throughout the year

We support individuals, organisations and community groups who would like to take part in litter picks throughout the year. Our Litterpicking Volunteer Guidelines (PDF, 85kb) will help you to determine what level of support we can offer. Please contact us for further details.

DCC Website - Dog Fouling

SLA TO EMPTY BIN - ASAP

Dog fouling spoils the environment, upsets local residents and can cause serious health risks particularly to children. Please encourage your family and friends to be responsible dog owners. It will help us keep County Durham clean.

It is an offence, under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, if you do not clean up your dog's waste. You could be issued with a fixed penalty notice of £80. If taken to court, you could face a maximum fine of £1,000.

Help stop dog fouling issues

It takes very little time and effort to clean up after your dog and it is no defence to claim ignorance of the dog's actions. Always carry a 'poop-a-scoop' when walking your dog and pick up after your pet. A carrier bag or nappy sack is all you need.

How to dispose of dog wasteDog bins

We provide dog waste bins throughout County Durham, at locations such as: parks, grass verges, pedestrian areas, footpaths, larger open spaces and coastal promenades. We regularly check dog bins and empty when required. You can also use any public litter bin to dispose of dog waste. If you would like to request a new dog bin, or have noticed problems with a bin in your area, please contact us.

Household bins

You can dispose of dog waste in your household rubbish bin, provided it is properly bagged. Please do not place dog waste in your household recycling bin as this will contaminate your recycling.

Report dog fouling 

Report dog fouling if there is a problem in your area, or you see someone failing to clean up their dog's mess. We need as much information as possible, such as: date and time; location; description of the dog; dog owner and address (where applicable).

All reports are dealt with in confidence.

Next steps

This information will enable our neighbourhood wardens to make enquiries and take the necessary action against the offender. 

If a pavement or verge is badly fouled, we can arrange for the mess to be cleaned up and/or arrange for an officer to patrol the area in an effort to catch the offenders.

DCC Website - Dog FoulingCampaigns and schemes to tackle dog foulingGreen Dog Walkers

The Green Dog Walkers scheme aims to change attitudes towards dog fouling. Volunteers wear a Green Dog Walkers badge which signifies they will:

• always clean up after their dog
• carry extra dog waste bags when walking their dog
• lend a dog waste bag to those without one
• act as a friendly reminder to other dog walkers to clean up after their dog.

Responsible dog ownership campaign

We run regular mini Responsible dog ownership campaigns across the county. If you would like to discuss campaigns or dog fouling issues in your area, please contact us.

Further information 

Download our Responsible Dog Ownership postcard (PDF, 75kb) for tips on how to report dog fouling and being a responsible dog owner.

Save money - could any of your items be reused?

• Consider reusing furniture and household items and contact one of the county's furniture reuse schemes. They will collect suitable items for free.
• Donate children's toys, in good working order, to charity.
• Take items to a local household waste recycling centre. If you're taking items in a van, minibus, trailer or pick-up, you'll need to apply for a free Waste permit scheme beforehand. Help stop flytipping in your area by disposing of white goods and large household waste correctly and legally.

What can you donate?

The charities listed below collect unwanted household items such as beds, furniture and electrical items free of charge - if they are re-usable and in good condition:

• Upholstered items such as sofas, chairs and beds should be clean, without tears and must have the current UK fire safety standard labels attached.
• All electrical items should be working, be free from rust, reasonably clean and have intact seals.

Items will need to be inspected before collection is agreed and in some instances, the collectors may not be able to accept items. If this is the case they will explain why.

The table below lists the items these charities accept.

Swipe to see full table

  County Durham Furniture Help Scheme East Durham Partnership Woodhouse Close Church Furniture Project Consett YMCA Haswell Mencap Furniture Enterprise Furniture / beds Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Carpets Yes No Yes Yes Yes Computers Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Electric cookers Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Fridges and freezers Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Washing machines Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Mobile phones Yes No No Yes Yes TV / audio Yes No Yes Yes Yes Small electrical items Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Bikes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Garden equipment Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Tools Yes No Yes Yes Yes Textiles Yes No Yes Yes Yes House clearances Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Bric-a-brac Yes No Yes Yes Yes

Accessibility

The collection will take place from within the boundary of your property; on the side of the property from where the rubbish/recycling bin is emptied. Items must be placed as near to the boundary of your property as possible. Please make sure we can gain access to where the item is stored.

Reasons why your bin might not have been emptied and how to report a missed bin collection.

Reasons why your bin might not have been emptied

Our bin crews keep a record of any problems they encounter on their rounds. Your bin might not be emptied if you:

• put the wrong bin out
• put the bin out on the wrong day
• don't put your bin out by 7.00am
• put the wrong things in your bin which might cause contamination, or overfill it or put items in it which make it too heavy to be lifted by the crew
• tie your bin to a fence or tie your lid shut, preventing it from being emptied

Find out bin collection dates 

Please enter your house number and postcode in the My Durham section of our website. You can download a collection calendar which tells you when your bins will be emptied.

Bad weather, major incidents or industrial action

In periods of bad weather, or other situations outside our control, you can find up to date information about council services such as bin collections on our disruptions, closures and warnings web page.

Report a missed collection 

If none of the reasons outlined above apply, fill in our general enquiry form. You'll need to include your contact details, household address, time and date you put your bin out and what type of bin it was - general, recycling or garden waste - so that we can investigate.

You can also contact us by phone to report it.

What if I forget to put my box or bin out for collection?

You will need to wait until your next fortnightly collection date. Alternatively you could take recyclables to one of our Recycling centres (tips).

DCC website - What goes where

Good to know

Are you a keen recycler? With funding from Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP), we're spreading the message about the national Recycle Now 'Good to Know' campaign, focusing on those items in different rooms of your home that you might not realise you can recycle. Download our Recycling around your home (PDF, 889kb) leaflet now and watch out for the campaign over the next few months.

What goes in my recycling bin?Top tips

• Drop recycling items straight into the bin loose. Don't bag your recycling in black sacks as we must be able to see the contents. If you have extra recycling and it won't fit in your bin, you can bag items in a clear/see-through bag and leave it next to it.
• Make sure items are rinsed clean to remove food waste. This stops contamination and keeps your bin clean. 
• Don't leave cardboard loose next to your bin as it cannot be collected for recycling if it becomes wet. Fold and squash large cardboard so it fits in your recycling bin or you can take it to your nearest household waste recycling centre (tip).

The following items go into your grey recycling bin with the blue lid.

MaterialYes pleaseNo thanks

• Plastics

• all plastic bottles
• yoghurt and butter containers  

• Hard plastic containers
• Children's toys

• Mixed paper
• Card

• all paper
• all cardboard
• greetings cards

• polystyrene
• used kitchen paper
• baby/facial wipes
• nappies

• Food tins
• Drink cans

• all steel and aluminium food tins and drinks cans
• clean tin foil
• biscuit and sweet tins

• cutlery or any other metal objects

• Cartons

• all cartons eg fruit juice, drinks and soup

• polystyrene

• Aerosols

• aerosol cans

 What goes in my recycling box?Top tips

• Always keep glass separate from your recycling bin and use the box provided.

The following items go into the recycling box.

MaterialYes pleaseNo thanks

• Mixed glass
• Bottles and jars

• glass bottles and jars of all colours

• broken glass 
• Pyrex 
• light bulbs 
• mirrors 
• flat glass

DCC Website - what goes in my bin

What goes in my rubbish bin?Top tips

• If you're unsure whether you can recycle an item, leave it out of your recycling bin and put it in your rubbish bin. This stops your recycling bin being contaminated.

The following items go in your rubbish bin.

MaterialYes pleaseNo thanks

• Household waste

• domestic household waste that cannot be recycled.
• used kitchen paper
• baby/facial wipes
• nappies
• pet waste
• polystyrene

• recycling 
• rubble or bricks 
• vehicle parts
• items which may make the bin too heavy

DCC Website - What goes in my bin What goes in my garden waste bin? Top tips

• Please don't bag your garden waste, drop it straight in the bin loose.

The following items go into the garden waste bin.

Swipe to see full table

Material Yes pleaseNo thanks

• Garden waste

• grass cuttings
• shrubs
• leaves
• weeds
• flowers and plants
• hedge clippings
• prunings
• small branches (thinner than 7cm in diameter)

• plastic / black bags
• bio-degradable or compostable bags
• plant pots / plastic trays
• kitchen / food waste
• soil / bricks / rubble
• nappies
• paper / plastic / cardboard
• textiles/clothing
• pet waste
• children's toys
• garden ornaments
• large branches (thicker than 7cm in diameter)

DCC - Refuse and Recycling Policy

We've made a commitment to you to provide waste and recycling services which meet your needs and are good value for money. Our refuse and recycling (bin) collection policy supports this commitment and explains how we carry this out.

Waste collection priorities

Our research shows that your priorities include:

• regular and reliable bin collections 
• streets are left clean afterwards 

Waste collection commitment - service standards

The waste collection commitment sets out ten service standards. We will:

1. Explain clearly what waste collection services residents can expect to receive. 
2. Provide regular bin collections. 
3. Provide a reliable bin collection service. 
4. Consider any special requests that individual households may have. 
5. Design services and carry out bin collections in a way that doesn't produce litter. 
6. Collect as many materials for recycling as we can and explain what happens to them clearly. 
7. Explain what our service rules are and the reasons for them. 
8. Tell residents in good time about changes to services, including temporary changes. 
9. Respond to complaints. 
10. Tell all residents about our commitment to collecting waste. 

The waste collection commitment has been developed in conjunction with the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) and the Local Government Association.

Our bin collection policy

The Refuse and Recycling Collections Policy (PDF, 215kb)outlines:

• how we will provide rubbish and recycling collection services
• what is required from residents

Who needs a Waste Permit?

There have been some changes made to the vehicle criteria that require a permit or are allowed access to a Household Waste Recycling Centre. Please check below to see if these changes apply to you. Type of Vehicle/Trailer

Do I require a permit for access?

Domestic vehicle (Family Car, Estate Car, MPV).

No

People Carrier/4x4 with windows and seats in the back.

No

Any vehicle with 9-16 seats e.g. motorhome, campervan or mini bus.

Yes

Trailer smaller than 9ft 10 (3M).

Yes

Car style pick up.

Yes

Trade vehicle, hired vehicle or van.

Yes

4x4 with no rear seats and no side windows.

Yes

Livestock carrying vehicle, agricultural vehicle.

No Access

Vehicle with a flat bed.

No Access

Large trailer (including hired trailers)

greater than 9ft 10 (3M) long.

No Access

Vehicle greater than 3.5 tonnes GVW and/or longer

than 20ft (6M).

No Access

Pedestrian with waste.

No Access

Any vehicle with commercial/trade waste.

No Access

Any household waste that puts health or the environment at risk must be disposed of at a specially licensed Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) / tip. Hazardous waste includes chemicals like bleach, gloss or lead based paint or sprays and asbestos.

Apply for your free permit 

Apply online - you can only apply for one permit at a time. You can choose to collect it or have it posted out to you but you must give at least 24 hours notice.

The permit is only valid for the date you arrange it for. The details of the waste on your permit must match what you bring.

Alternatively you can contact us or pick one up from your local customer access points. 

What counts as hazardous waste?

You will need a household hazardous waste permit to dispose of chemicals, gloss and lead based paint and sprays or asbestos. You don't need a hazardous waste permit for electrical goods and batteries, these can be disposed of at any HWRC.

Which tips accept hazardous waste?

• Annfield Plain HWRC - Morrison Busty Industrial Estate, DH9 7XW
• Horden HWRC - Peterlee, SR8 3SX
• Romanway HWRC - Romanway Industrial Estate, Tindale Crescent, Bishop Auckland, DL14 9AW
• Tudhoe HWRC - Tudhoe Industrial Estate, Spennymoor, DL16 6TL

Hazardous waste permits can be used from Monday to Sunday (7 days a week). Our Household Waste Recycling Centre page lists their opening times.

Access for certain types of vehicle

Only certain types of vehicles can enter a HWRC. Download Who needs a waste permit (PDF, 67kb) which provides more information on whether your vehicle can enter the site. 

DCC Website - Household waste recycling centres

Your local household waste recycling centre (HWRC) or tip, is the place to recycle and dispose of household waste.

You can find your nearest tip by clicking on My Durham at the top of this page, enter your house name or number and your postcode.

• HWRCs on a map
• HWRC opening times
• What can you dispose of at a HWRC?
• Do you need a permit?

Open CloseHWRCs on a map

Find our HWRCs on a map.

Open CloseHWRC opening hours

See the opening times for our Household Waste Recycling Centres.

Frosterley recycling site trial

A mobile recycling centre at Frosterley will operate extended dates, for a trial period, on alternate Saturdays until 13 August 2016 (further dates are subject to review and will be communicated nearer the time). Find out more about Frosterley recycling site trial including dates and opening times.

What can you dispose of at a HWRC?

HWRCs are for household waste only. Download Household Waste Recycling Centre information (PDF, 129kb) to see a full list of what can be disposed of at each site.

Do you need a permit?

Yes, there are some instances where you will need a permit.

Vehicles that need a permit to enter the HWRC

Only certain types of vehicles can enter a HWRC. Find out if your vehicle is ok and, if not, how to apply for a household waste permit through our waste permit scheme.

Disabled/elderly or infirm residents

Assistance is available upon request at all recycling centres to help you dispose of your waste. Upon arrival please remain in your vehicle and speak to a site operative to advise them that you need assistance.

Household hazardous waste

Chemicals and hazardous materials like paint, asbestos and bleach must be disposed of carefully. Find out more about household hazardous waste and how to apply for a hazardous waste permit.

Business and landlord waste

By law all waste from businesses and landlords cannot be disposed of at a HWRC.

• Business waste collection
• Waste from landlords

If you've got a pest problem, make the choice to call in our pest control experts to help.

Whether it's advice and support to keep pests at bay or a one off programme of treatment to get rid of rats, mice, wasps, fleas, cockroaches and more, our pest control team offers a wide range of services to householders and businesses.

• Get rid of pests in your home
• Commercial pest control services

Why choose our pest control services?Protection from pests

Protecting you from pests is our main objective. We offer: 

• a choice of morning or afternoon appointments, on a day of your choice,
• safe treatments that are fully risk assessed,
• advice on how to prevent pests infesting your property in the future,
• commercial contracts with a fully integrated pest management service that protects your business from the harmful effects of a pest infestation.

Experienced staff

Our experienced team of technicians operate throughout the county and visit every area at least three times a week.

Each team member is qualified through the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) and collectively they have over 120 years experience in the pest control industry.

Environmentally friendly ethos

We operate environmentally responsible practices to minimise the risk of harm to the environment and non-target species.

All technicians have completed training from the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU) and we only use licensed, professional pest control products, that comply with all relevant UK and European legislation.

If you've got a pest problem at your business premises, we can help. Call in our experts to help get rid of rats, mice, wasps, flies, cockroaches and more.

Our annual pest control contracts and individual treatments help prevent/control pest problems in businesses, schools and community buildings.

Commercial pest control contracts

Sign up to a commercial pest control contract for a fully integrated pest management service which includes:

• help to proof your building to minimise the likelihood of a pest problem developing
• monitoring of your premises to quickly identify any problems that do occur
• treatments to quickly and safely eradicate any infestations we find
• supply of suitable paperwork to meet any legal or regulatory obligations that your organisation needs to comply with
• identification and referral of problems on neighbouring land that may be contributing to your problem.

Alternatively, we can simply provide you with a safe and effective contract-free programme of treatment to clear any pest infestation you may have.

Free site survey 

Contact us for a free survey of your premises, or to arrange an appointment to treat a current pest problem.

If you've got a pest problem in your home, we can help. Call in our experts to help get rid of rats, mice, fleas, cockroaches and more.

Make an appointment for one of our pest control technicians to visit you. They'll identify the pest, explain what treatment choices are available and whether you can control the problem yourself.

How much does it cost?

The standard charge is £40.00* which covers visits and materials for most common pests. *If we identify that certain pests require lengthier treatment, we'll advise you of any additional cost before we proceed.

Make an appointment 

Contact us to book an appointment. You pay when you make the booking but if we don't need to take any action when we visit, we'll give you advice about any other action you can take and refund 50% of the fee.

Pests we treat

• rats
• mice
• wasps
• most flying and crawling insects including bed bugs, fleas, cockroaches, flies and weevils
• moles
• squirrels
• bees - see the information below

Pests we don't treat

• foxes
• rabbits
• bats
• woodworm
• snakes and reptiles

You may need to take some action yourself

Our ability to effectively treat some pests may require you to take some action. This may include:

• moving or removing fixtures and fittings in your home or garden
• clearing up any rubbish that is present
• de-cluttering your living space
• carrying out proofing works to prevent further pests accessing the property
• getting pets treated by a vet.

Our Customer Services and Pest Control technicians will advise you of any such requirements but you will need to do the work yourself or arrange for a tradesman to do it for you.

If you don't follow our advice, we will still attempt to tackle your problem; however, we reserve the right to stop treatment if we feel your failure to act will prevent the treatment from being successful or will significantly increase the cost of completing the treatment.

If you rent your home

If you rent your home from Durham City Homes, Dale & Valley Homes or East Durham Homes please contact them directly. They have an agreement with us to pay for the majority of common pest treatments for their tenants. 

If you rent your home from a private landlord or another housing association, please contact them to find out if they will pay the cost of the treatment.

Treatment of bees

All bee species play an important role in nature, therefore we try to avoid destroying them where possible. We will assess and confirm the species of the bee, provide advice on whether treatment is necessary, and if so, what treatment options there are. This could include relocation or destruction of the swarm or nest. If treatment is not possible, we will refund 50% of the standard charge.

Honey bees

The British Beekeepers Association (BBKA) provides information on how to identify a honeybee swarm. Please contact the British Beekeepers Association to request help in dealing with a honeybee swam. If the BBKA is unable to help you, we may be able to remove or destroy the swarm. The standard treatment charge applies. Please note: the BBKA does not deal with bumblebees.

Property owners or occupiers are responsible for protecting their property against floodwater. We can provide sandbags in areas where there are flood or severe weather warnings.

Complete our online form to request sandbags.

Alternatively you can contact us. We will deal with your request as soon as possible.

 How to safely use sandbags and aqua sacs video

A video guide to the use of sandbags and aqua sacs on behalf of the County Durham and Darlington Local Resilience Forum.

Distribution of sandbags

Whilst we try and help with all requests for sandbags, we have to prioritise distribution. We give out sandbags based on:

• the level of flooding threat to properties,
• the needs of the household,
• and the resources we have available at the time.

Make your own sandbags

Make your own sandbags by buying bags and sand from builders' merchants, or use alternatives such as pillowcases or bin bags filled with garden soil.

Disposal of sandbags

Property owners or occupiers are also responsible for the safe disposal of sandbags after flooding. Where possible, used sandbags should be split, with the contents spread over gardens and the bag itself placed in the household rubbish bin. Please do not place the filled sandbag in your bin.

DCC website - Flood Advice

If you are at risk of flooding, find out what you can do before, during and after to minimise the impact.

Before a flood

• Register with the Environment Agency to receive flood warnings.
• View the Environment Agency's flood summary information for your area.
• Plan where you will go if you have to evacuate and how you will get there. 
• Make a flood plan and get guidance on producing a flood plan template. 
• Think about who can look after your pets.
• Have any essential medication to hand.
• Ask us for sandbags or buy sandbags/aqua sacs from a local builders merchants. 
• Have food and other supplies in your home that will help you cope should you be unable to evacuate.
• Buy flood insurance to protect your home and belongings.
• Turn off your water, gas and electricity. Your utility providers should be able to tell you how to do this.
• Move valuable/irreplaceable items to upper floors.

During a flood

• When you tell us about a flood we will help where we can. We will send sandbags and staff to help if possible and then investigate the source of the flood to reduce future risks. Report flooding to us using the details at the bottom of the page. 
• Check on neighbours who may need help or who can help you.
• Do not enter flood water on foot or in a vehicle. You don't know what is under the surface or how fast it is flowing. It can also make you ill.
• Don't go near any electrical sockets if you are standing in water.

Report flooding

Contact our customer services team, Northumbria Water or Floodline to report flooding from water mains, public drains, sewers or rivers.

Customer Services: 03000 26 1000 for flooding on roads and from public drains.

Northumbria Water: 0800 393 084 for burst water mains or 0800 328 7648 for sewers.

Floodline: 0845 988 1188 for river flooding.

Find more information on who is responsible for different types of flooding issues. 

After a flood

• Don't turn your gas or electricity on until they have been checked by a qualified technician.
• Call your water company to ask if your water is safe to drink and wash in.
• Make sure your house is properly ventilated if you are using indoor heaters to dry your home. Avoid petrol or diesel generators as their fumes are poisonous.
• Don't eat anything that has touched flood water.
• Wash your hands regularly and clean kitchen work surfaces before you use them.
• Take photographs and call your insurance company.

SLA REMOVAL - ASAP

If you come across a discarded syringe or needle please report the location to us.

Please do not attempt to pick up syringes or needles yourself.

It is important to give the exact location and the number of syringes to be collected. Details of location such as street name, lamp post number, house number are a great help. Also providing your contact number would be really helpful for us if we are having difficulty in finding the syringe and require a more precise location.

To protect the community against accidental needle injury your request will be dealt with promptly and the discarded syringe collected in a safe storage box before being disposed of with other clinical waste. We will attempt to remove them within 2 hours of receiving your message.

If you need clinical waste removed from your house, we offer a free collection service for its safe removal and disposal.

How do you arrange this service? - 2 day SLA

Step 1: You should ask for a collection via your district nurse, doctor or GP.

Step 2: Once we receive a request from them, we will tell you your collection day, time and where it will be picked up from.

Step 3: The waste should be placed in an appropriate bag or container and left at the pick-up point.

What is household clinical waste?

• blood or other bodily fluids 
• human tissue 
• drugs or other pharmaceutical products 
• swabs or dressings 
• syringes, needles or other sharp instruments

Information about dog microchipping and where to get your dog microchipped in the county.

From 6 April 2016, in England and Wales, it is law that all dogs aged 8 weeks old or over must be fitted with a microchip.

If you already have a dog, and it is not microchipped, we recommend you have your pet fitted with an identification microchip.

Thinking of buying a puppy? Always use a registered breeder. From 6 April 2016, breeders are responsible for microchipping the puppy before it is sold. Always check the puppy is microchipped before taking it home. 

Arrange for your dog to be microchipped

We're working in partnership with The Dogs Trust and Stray Aid to provide free microchipping to dogs belonging to residents of County Durham, who bought their dogs before the law changed. 

Where can I get my dog microchipped?

The Dogs Trust

Please see our List of free dog microchipping events (PDF, 142kb) in County Durham. The microchipping calendar will be updated throughout the year, please check the most up-to-date version. Terms and conditions apply, see below.

Stray Aid

Free microchipping is also available to dog owners in the North East of England by Stray Aid Rescue Kennels, Cornforth Lane, Coxhoe, DH6 4EJ. Subject to certain terms and conditions.

Please contact 0300 999 4247 to make an appointment, at least the day before you intend to go to make sure they have a volunteer available. Microchipping is carried out seven days a week between 2.00pm and 3.00pm, excluding bank holidays. 

You can also get your dog microchipped by your vet.

Terms and conditions for free microchipping with the Dogs Trust

• All puppies, up to the age of 6 months old, should be fully vaccinated and must be carried. Dogs Trust reserve the right to ask for proof of vaccination. Dogs aged over 6 months old should also have up to date injections. This is to prevent the spread of disease.
• All dogs must be wearing a dog collar and lead and have a dog handler present who is aged 18 years or over.
• Proof of address showing you live in County Durham must be presented - this can be a utility bill or driving licence.
• You can just turn up on the day with your dog. No appointment is necessary. Microchipping will be done on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note: the queue will be closed at an appropriate time to make sure the last dog is seen by closing time.
• The list of microchipping events are correct at the time of publication and will be updated as necessary throughout the year.

Know the benefits of dog microchippingIs your dog like Chip?

Our #BeLikeChip dog microchipping campaign (PDF, 1Mb) aims to educate and engage with dog owners about the importance of making sure their dog is microchipped. Local Crufts winner, Marie Burns and dog, Devon, are on board with our campaign. See Crufts winning duo back microchipping campaign for details.

Did you know?

Neighbourhood wardens and vets routinely check for identification microchips which means your dog can be returned to you if it becomes lost, stray, is found hurt, or is stolen.

Further information 

To find out more about the new microchipping law, see Appendix 5 of Gov.uk's Animal Welfare - microchipping advice or see our Dog microchipping law - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (PDF, 242kb).

Can I get other pets microchipped?

For microchipping of other animals please contact your vet.

DCC website - Animal health amd welfare

We monitor and enforce animal health and welfare on farms and in transit, with advice on keeping and moving livestock; disposing of remains; preventing mistreatment; advice on animal passports, inspections of farms, markets and licensed premises.

Keeping and moving livestock

'Livestock' refers to sheep, goats, cattle, horses and poultry. All keepers of livestock, whether it be a herd or one animal, must be registered with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), which is now part of Gov.uk. You must also conform to legislation on animal identification and tracing.

To prevent the spread of disease, all livestock movements must be monitored and you must have a licence before you move them. Owners of livestock must keep details of all movements of livestock, on and off their land, in movement record books.

If you think that your livestock has contracted a disease, you must report this as soon as an outbreak is suspected as many animal diseases are highly contagious. These are known as notifiable diseases which include foot and mouth disease, Bluetongue Bird Flu (Avian influenza) and Anthrax Rabies. If you suspect any signs of any notifiable diseases or have a case confirmed, you must report these immediately to the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA).

To help minimise the risk of disease and reduce the possibility of controlling the spread of disease during an outbreak, all livestock movements require a licence and must be monitored. Owners of livestock must keep accurate records of all movements of livestock, on and off their land, in movement record books. Movement documents for the relevant animals can be accessed below:

• Moving sheep and goats: movements must be accompanied by an AML1 form. This form services as a single movement reporting document, so each stage of a multiple move must be completed on a separate form. On completion of the journey, the white copy must be sent to appropriate local authority of destination within three days - Animal Reporting and Movement Service
• Moving pigs: you can apply for a licence for pig movements through the eAML2 form. On completion of the journey, you must inform the relevant local authority at your destination within three days of arrival - Gov.uk: apply for a licence for pig movement
• Moving cattle: cattle have individual passports which should always accompany them when they move. Cattle passports are issues shortly after birth by the British Cattle Movement Service - British Cattle Movement Service

Any person who keeps farm animals must keep a record on all veterinary medicines that are used to ensure that human consumption is safe, to provide evidence of treatments and to make sure that medicines are approved and used in the correct quantities. Gov.uk can provide further information on what records must be kept in relation to veterinary medicines for livestock.

Disposal of livestock remains

To avoid contamination, livestock remains must be disposed of by approved means. Gov.uk provides further details on how to dispose of livestock remains and local information on this is available by contacting your local AHVLA office.

Preventing mistreatment of livestock

To prevent the mistreatment of livestock, Animal Health Inspectors will inspect and prosecute anyone who breaks any law relating to animal treatment. If you have serious concerns about the welfare of any farm animals in your area, please contact us. Your correspondence will be dealt with in complete confidence.

Horse passports

All horses, ponies and donkeys must have a horse passport which helps to make sure that horses who are treated with certain medicines don't end up as food for people, and prevents the sale of a stolen horse, pony or donkey, as the passport proves its identity. Further information about the regulation as well as how to apply for a horse passport can be found on the GOV.UK website. Gov.uk: apply for a horse passport

Pet passports

The pet travel scheme allows pet dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits and rodents to enter or re-enter the UK from the EU and a selection of long-haul destination without having to stay in quarantine. For your pet to qualify, strict criteria must be met. Find out about the criteria and apply for a pet passport. Gov.uk: taking your pet abroad

Inspections

We visit and inspect farms, markets and licensed premises to advise businesses of their responsibilities and to ensure that current legislation is being met. We also offer advice and assistance to farmers and the livestock industry so that they comply with their statutory obligations, and will investigate any breaches of legislation on farms and at licensed premises.

During a scheduled visit to a farm, we will check all livestock related documentation including flock and herd registers, movement records, veterinary medicine records, animal by-product records and feed hygiene records. Stock on the holding will also be checked on welfare and to ascertain whether the stock is correctly identified.

Complaints

Please contact the following people for complaints:

• Those related to farms, transport of animals, the mistreatment of livestock, animal carcasses and against licensed premises should contact us.
• Those related to the welfare of dogs and cats (outside of licensed premises), please contact the RSPCA.
• Those related to the welfare of horses, contact the RSPCA or the The British Horse Society.

DCC website - Tree management

We are responsible for managing trees on our own land including parks, highways, schools and public green spaces. We are also committed to the preservation of trees which are included in a Tree Preservation Order or situated within conservation areas.

Council-owned trees

If you have a query about the management of trees on public land in your neighbourhood you should contact us. We will also deal with trees situated within the public highway, adjacent to the road or on roadside verges. If your enquiry relates to woodlands we own, rather than trees, there is further information on our forest and woodland management page.

Protected trees

Some trees are protected by law, including those covered by Tree Preservation Orders and those lying within conservation areas. We are primarily responsible for evaluating the impact of proposed tree works on the character of conservation areas and managing over 700 Tree Preservation Orders. More information can be found on the protected trees page.

Privately owned trees

Trees on private land are not the responsibility of the council. If you need advice about a tree on your own land you should consult a qualified arboriculturalist. If you have concerns over a tree on privately owned land other than your own, you will need to speak to the landowner. The Department for Communities and Local Government website contains some useful guidance on trees and high hedges.

Advice for private landowners

The law protects trees and woodland under a range of legislation that makes it an offence to fell or prune trees without permission.

• Always contact us to ensure that the trees are not covered by a Tree Preservation Order, planning constraints or are within a conservation area. See our protected trees information for further advice.
• Employ a suitably trained professional tree surgeon who is covered by Public Liability Insurance. Always ask for proof.
• Be very cautious before you employ unsolicited house callers or leaflet droppers claiming to be professional tree surgeons.
• Reputable tree surgeons can be found in the Yellow Pages or by contacting a relevant professional body such as the Arboricultural Association.

Privately-owned woodland

Woodland in private ownership is also subject to protection under the Forestry Act. Before undertaking any works in woodland you should check with the Forestry Commission.

Tree Management Policy

A public consultation was held between December 2013 and March 2014 to establish a countywide Tree Management Policy. Our Cabinet agreed the implementation of the policy: The Tree Management Policy (PDF, 372kb) brings all tree management procedures together into one document and explains:

• how our 'highways tree inspection programme' works
• how we will deal with complaints and reports about our trees
• how we prioritise work and the reasons why work will or won't be done
• how and why we manage our tree stock
• what powers we have over trees on private land
• how the policy will affect planning and development control
• how we make decisions and what affects the decisions

It will also encourage others people who are responsible for trees to take a positive approach to the management of the trees in their care.

DCC website - Flytipping

SLA TO REMOVE - ASAP

Flytipping is the illegal dumping of household or trade waste. Everyone has a responsibility to make sure waste is disposed of correctly. If your waste is flytipped and can be traced back to you, you could be taken to court and prosecuted. The maximum fine is up to £50,000. You could also be issued with a £400 Fixed Penalty Notice for flytipping.

Report flytipping 

Report flytipping online

Or call 03000 261 000

Report illegal or unregistered waste carriers

Call the Crimestoppers hotline 0800 555 111 or use the Crimestoppers: online contact form.

If flytipping is in a dangerous place or is causing obstruction to a highway, please contact the police.

What information should you provide?

• If you witness the offence and it is safe to do so, take a note of the vehicle make, model, colour and registration number, what was dumped and a description of the flytippers.

• Do not look for clues in the waste yourself, as there may be harmful items in it.

​Flytipping removal

​We aim to investigate and remove flytipped rubbish from our land and open spaces within 24 hours of being notified, when it's practical to do so. We will also prosecute flytippers if there is sufficient evidence.

Getting rid of waste responsibly - your duty of care

Householders and businesses must get rid of waste responsibly. The duty of care lasts from the moment the waste is produced to when it's received by a business that is authorised to deal with it.

Penalties for flytipping

If your waste is flytipped and is traced back to you, you could be taken to court and prosecuted. The maximum fine is up to £50,000. You can also be issued with a £400 Fixed Penalty Notice for flytipping. To avoid getting into this situation, follow the advice below.

Householder advice

• Ask to see a waste carrier certificate before handing over your cash and rubbish to your builder or other tradesman.
• Check whether a tradesman has a waste carrier certificate online or by contacting the Environment Agency. 
• Take your waste to one of our household waste recycling centres (tips) instead.
• Pay for a large item (bulky waste) collection.
• Donate items, in good condition to a re-use scheme.

Business advice

• Arrange a business waste collection.
• If you use a private waste company, check they are registered.
• If you want to do it yourself, follow our business waste disposal advice.

'Operation: Stop It' flytipping campaign

As part of a multi-agency, partnership approach, we are working with Durham Constabulary, the Environment Agency and Crimestoppers to reduce flytipping in County Durham. The 'Operation: Stop It' campaign was launched in November 2014. The aim is to educate residents, trades people and businesses on their waste 'Duty of Care' in correct waste disposal and enforce against those who dump waste illegally.

Open CloseFlytipping video

Operation: Stop It. Find out how we're dealing with flytipping.

How do we aim to stop flytipping in County Durham?

• Additional CCTV cameras installed in flytipping hotspot areas

• Improved investigation procedures and techniques to trace flytipping back to the culprit

• Increased prosecutions through Magistrates' Courts to deter people from dumping waste

• Regular 'Stop and check' operations carried out by Neighbourhood wardens and Durham Constabulary to check waste carriers are licensed

• Frequent reminders to waste carriers that they must be licensed to collect, carry, transport and dispose of waste in their possession

• Ongoing communication to residents, trades people and businesses on how to dispose of waste correctly

• A guide to help stop flytipping (PDF, 621kb) provided to all residents in the county, advising them how to get rid of waste within the law and to report anyone suspected of being an unlicensed waste carrier

• Publicising flytipping prosecutions to deter people from dumping waste and/or operating as unlicensed waste carriers.

Further information

Flytipping education, engagement and enforcement actions are reported each month in the Neighbourhood Protection reports. 

DCC website - Bus timetables and routes

Find bus route, timetable and passenger information for your local area.

Routes and timetables

The public transport map and timetable finder provides information on bus routes and timetables across the county. A new easier to use system is in place from Friday 28 November.

Find out when the next bus is due

Across the North East the most popular bus routes are tracked using satellite technology. Information is sent to electronic display boards at bus stops and websites to provide real time passenger information.

You can also get this information on your mobile or smart phone by using our journey planning services.

Timetable changesShort term service changes

Services which are temporarily disrupted because of roadworks or major events, or where extra journeys might be added are listed on the bus company websites.

Longer term service changes

Longer term service changes can be found on the interactive public transport mapping system.

Timetable information on bus stops and shelters

Contact us if there is a problem with an electronic display or paper timetable on one of our bus stops or shelters.

Parking tickets

Pay/appeal against a parking fine online

All other fines (fixed penalty notices)

Pay for your fixed penalty notice online - all you need is the reference number from the notice you've been sent.

We issue fines (fixed penalty notices) for a variety of things including:

• Litter
• Dog fouling
• Fly tipping / abandoned vehicles
• Smoking related offences
• Consuming alcohol in a prohibited place
• Irregular school attendance
• Failure to produce appropriate documents eg for transporting waste

Where can I park? Durham City car parks Durham City Park and Ride                  

Barnard Castle car parks Bishop Auckland car parks Chester-le-Street car parks

Durham City is served by three Park and Ride sites on the key routes into the city. These are situated at Belmont, Sniperley and Howlands. A direct bus service runs every 10 minutes to the city centre from each site.

Use the Park and Ride during the Durham City traffic improvement scheme  to avoid any delays caused by the roadworks at Gilesgate and Leazes Bowl roundabout.

Where are the Park and Ride sites?

• Belmont, DH1 1SR
• Howlands Farm, DH1 3TQ
• Sniperley, DH1 5RA

Park and Ride location map (PDF, 577kb)

When are they open?

Buses run every ten minutes from each site, Monday to Saturday between 7.00am and 7.00pm. Our Belmont site is currently staying open until 8pm on Thursdays to help people take advantage of the late night opening of many shops in the city. 

The service doesn't operate on Sundays or bank holidays. See a more detailed timetable on our public transport map and timetable finder on our bus timetable information page.

How much does it cost?

For only £2 per person, you can park until 7.00pm, get unlimited travel on the park and ride buses for the day and even use the Cathedral Bus for free.

Under 16s are free if they're accompanied by an adult over 21. Concessionary pass holders travel for free after 9.30am, Monday to Friday and all day Saturday. Before 9.30am on weekdays, there's a 50p charge.

If you use our park and ride service regularly, then you could save money with a smart card.

Be aware that parking at the sites is only for people using the park and ride buses. The sites close at 7.00pm and cars cannot be left overnight. Breaking these rules may result in you receiving a parking ticket.

Where do the buses go?

Park and Ride route map (PDF, 394kb)

• Belmont route (red on the map) stops at Milburngate Bridge east side, Milburngate, County Hall and the University Hospital.
• Sniperley route (green on the map) stops at the University Hospital, County Hall, Milburngate, Claypath (Millennium Place).
• Howlands route (blue on the map) stops at New Elvet, Milburngate Bridge east side, Milburngate, Leazes Road underpass, New Elvet. 

What facilities are there?

Dogs are allowed on our buses as long as they are on a lead.

Our secure parking sites are fully covered by CCTV as well as regularly patrolled by security. You can also leave your details with the site operator and we'll contact you if there's any problem with your car, such as the lights being left on.

There are no coach parking facilities at the Park and Ride sites, however, there is a designated park at The Sands coach park in Durham city centre. See our Durham City car parks page for more information.

Advertise with us

With buses running 12 hours a day, in and out of a bustling city, advertising on our park and ride buses can really boost your business. See our advertise on our park and ride buses page for more information.

DCC website - Apply/amend blue badge

This page explains how to apply for, renew or amend a Blue Badge. It also explains how to replace a lost or stolen Blue Badge. The quickest and easiest way to do this is online.

Please be aware - some websites will offer to help you with your Blue Badge application but they may charge you an additional fee. You can apply using the official Gov.uk: apply for or renew a Blue Badge website where you will not be charged any fees other than the cost of your Blue Badge.

Individual Blue Badge permits cost £10. It can take up to six weeks to process a Blue Badge application. To ensure there are no delays, please provide full and correct information with your initial application.

• Apply for or renew a Blue Badge online
• Apply for or renew a Blue Badge by post
• Replace a lost or stolen Blue Badge
• Change the details of your Blue Badge

Apply for or renew a Blue Badge online

Step 1: Follow the step by step application process to apply for or renew a Blue Badge online.

Step 2: You'll receive a confirmation email which lists the information you must provide to support your application. These documents must be sent to us by email to bluebadgescheme@durham.gov.uk or through the post. We cannot process your application until we receive all documentation. 

Step 3: Gov.uk will send your application to us to make a decision on your eligibility. 

Step 4: When you receive confirmation that you qualify, pay for your Blue Badge online. Individual permits cost £10.

Step 5: Your Blue Badge will be sent to you 10 to 12 working days after receipt of payment.

Apply for or renew a Blue Badge by post

Step 1: Download and print the relevant application form and guidance notes. Or, collect a form from one of our customer access points. Return your completed application form together with the relevant supporting information to us.

• Individual Blue Badge application form (PDF, 426kb)
• Blue Badge application - information sheet (PDF, 163kb)
• Organisational Blue Badge application form and guidance (PDF, 181kb)
• Replacement Blue Badge application form (PDF, 129kb)

Step 2: We will make a decision on your eligibility. 

Step 3: When you receive confirmation that you qualify, pay for your Blue Badge permit. Either:

• Pay for your Blue Badge online.
• Pay by debit or credit card  - contact us on our 24 hour automated telephone line (you'll need your debit or credit card, your unique eight digit Blue Badge reference number and a pen and paper to note your receipt number).
• Send a cheque payable to Durham County Council for £10.

Step 4: Your Blue Badge will be sent to you 10 to 12 working days after receipt of payment.

If your application is turned down

If we decide you're not eligible, we will tell you why. You can ask us to reconsider your case if you don't think all the important information you provided was taken into account. You must do this within 28 days of the decision being made.

You can also re-apply if your mobility problems become more serious.

Fast-track applications

If a new application is received from a Macmillan nurse, district nurse or GP, because someone is terminally ill, we will fast-track the application. In this instance no fee or photograph is required.

Replace a lost or stolen Blue Badge

If your badge is lost or stolen you must report this to the police and get a crime reference number before you can get a replacement Blue Badge.

Follow the step by step process to report a lost or stolen Blue Badge online at Gov.uk: report a lost or stolen Blue Badge

Or, print and complete the Replacement Blue Badge application form (PDF, 129kb). Return the application form to the address included on the form, with:

• a cheque payable to Durham County Council for £10.
• a new passport photo for the replacement badge.

Change the details on your Blue Badge

Step 1: Follow the step by step application process to change the details on your Blue Badge online at Gov.uk: apply to change the details on your Blue Badge.  which clearly sets out what information you must provide to support your application.

Step2: Gov.uk will send your application to us.

Step 3: When you receive confirmation of your changes, pay for your Blue Badge online. Individual permits cost £10.

Step 4: Your Blue Badge will be sent to you five to seven working days after payment.

Who can access your information - data protection

Approved members of staff within the county council can access the national Blue Badge database. They have permission to view and update Blue Badge records of people living in County Durham.

Basic information may be shared with other local authorities the police and parking enforcement services to help detect fraud or abuse.

DCC website - Parking restrictions

This section tells you about parking on the streets of County Durham. It explains what the rules are and what happens if you break them. Please use this information in conjunction with your Highway Code to park safely and legally.

• Blue Badge disability parking scheme: information about blue badges
• Bus lanes and bus stops: find out who can and can't use a bus lane, and get information on parking at bus stops
• Parking enforcement waivers: a parking waiver allows a driver to park a vehicle where restrictions are in place.
• Controlled Parking Zones and areas: find out how the CPZs and CPAs affect parking
• Loading bays: all you need to know about loading and unloading from a loading bay
• Motorcycle and moped parking: find out about parking for motorcycles and mopeds
• Motorhome parking: motorhomes are permitted in all of our car parks, however, cooking and overnight sleeping is not permitted.
• Pay and display bays: everything you need to know about pay and display bays in the Durham City CPZ
• Road markings and signage: information including how kerb and road markings, such as yellow lines, affect parking
• School keep clear markings: information on parking on school keep-clear markings
• Taxi ranks and tariffs: find out about on-street parking for taxis 

From time to time we invite you to comment on proposed change to parking restrictions. These are available as Statutory notices.

We are responsible for civil parking enforcement in County Durham.

The Traffic Management Act 2004 has allowed us to take on overall responsibility for enforcing parking restrictions within County Durham. Parking restrictions that were enforced by the police have been de-criminalised and non-payment of penalty charges can be pursued through civil procedures rather than through the magistrates' courts.

Pay/appeal against a parking fine online. (Please note that the ticket details may not appear online until 24 hours after the PCN has been issued.)

Parking attendants and traffic wardens have been replaced by civil enforcement officers (CEOs). CEOs can issue lower penalty charges of £50.00 for less serious contraventions of parking restrictions, such as not displaying a pay and display ticket, and higher penalty charges of £70.00 for more serious contraventions such as parking on double yellow lines. Both rates of penalty charges will be reduced by 50% if paid in the 14 day discount period beginning with the date the notice was served. The amount of the penalty charge depends upon the level of contravention. The aims of enforcement are to:

• keep traffic moving (including pedestrians and cyclists)
• improve road safety
• improve the environment
• improve the quality and accessibility of public transport
• meet the needs of disabled people, some of whom will be unable to use public transport, and depend on the use of a car
• manage the demands for kerb space

Notices

Information on the notices issued in the penalty charge administrative process:

• Penalty Charge Notice (PCN): issued if a vehicle parks in contravention of parking restrictions
• Notice to Owner (NtO): issued if a PCN remains unpaid after 28 days
• Charge Certificate: issued if no action, or an unsuccessful action, is taken in response to a Notice to Owner
• Order for Recovery: issued if no payment is made following 14 days of service of a Charge Certificate
• Warrant of Control: issued if no action is taken following 21 days of service of an Order for Recovery

PATROL

Parking and Traffic Regulations Outside of London (PATROL) provides information on civil parking and bus lane enforcement on behalf of councils in England (outside London) and Wales. Their website offers general advice on what to do if you receive a Penalty Charge Notice. It also includes direct links to local information via council websites as well as other relevant links. 

We are a member of PATROL Adjudication Joint Committee. The committee publishes an annual statement of accounts, which is subject to external audit, and you can find these on the PATROL website.

Annual reports

Enforcement requires us to produce an annual report detailing our enforcement activities over the previous financial year. You can download the annual reports published to date:

• Civil Parking Enforcement Annual Report 2014-2015 (PDF, 5Mb)
• Civil Parking Enforcement Annual Report 2013-2014 (PDF, 8Mb)
• Civil Parking Enforcement Annual Report 2012-2013 (PDF, 2Mb)
• Civil Parking Enforcement Annual Report 2011-2012 (PDF, 2Mb)
• Civil Parking Enforcement Annual Report 2010-2011 (PDF, 1Mb)
• Civil Parking Enforcement Annual Report 2009-2010 (PDF, 391kb)
• Civil Parking Enforcement Annual Report 2008-2009 (PDF, 816kb)

Parking Account

Details of our income and expenditure for our Parking account for 2015/2016 are attached below:

• Breakdown of Parking Account 2015-2016 (PDF, 38kb)
• Breakdown of Parking Account 2015-2016 (CSV, 2kb)

Safety Inspections are carried out to identify defects, which may become a hazard or inconvenience to users of the highway network.

To ensure that the highway network is free from hazards to the travelling public, regular safety inspections are undertaken by trained and experienced inspectors. When setting the frequency of inspections, consideration is given to road class, traffic use, characteristics of adjoining roads and local knowledge. The frequency of inspections associated with our network is shown in the table below.

Inspection frequencyCategoryHierarchyGeneral DescriptionFrequency2Strategic routes Non-motorway trunk and some principal A roads between primary destinations.1 month3aMain distributorMajor urban network and inter-primary links. Short-medium distance traffic.1 month3bSecondary distributor Classified road (B and C class) and unclassified urban bus routes carrying local traffic with frontage access and frequent junctions.1 month4aLink roadRoads linking between main and secondary distributor network with frontage and frequent junctions.3 months4bLocal access road Roads serving limited number of properties carrying only access traffic.1 year

The following is an example of items that are considered whilst carrying out a routine safety inspection:

• Potholes, crack or gaps in the surface.
• Missing or badly worn road markings and road studs.
• Blocked drains.
• Standing water, water discharging onto or flowing across the road.
• Missing or broken ironwork (manhole covers etc)
• Damaged safety fencing, parapet fencing, handrails and other barriers.
• Damaged, defective, displaced, missing or misleading traffic signs, signals or lighting columns.
• Condition of highway verges and trees.
• Sight lines obscured by tree, unauthorised signing and other features.

The above list is not exhaustive and other items may also be considered while carrying out the inspection.

Defects identified during the safety inspection are scheduled for repair on a priority basis, based on level of hazard and importance of route. To report a particular problem or hazard please Report a problem with a road or pavement.

As the Highway Authority, we have a responsibility for the maintenance of all adopted roads within the county.

Road maintenance schemes

We carry out a variety of road maintenance schemes throughout the year, these include:

• minor patching works
• micro asphalt resurfacing
• surface dressing
• resurfacing
• full reconstruction

Damaged road surfaces and potholes can cause inconvenience and damage to road users and vehicles. To minimise the risk of damage and potholes becoming a major hazard to road users, all of the adopted road network within the county is inspected on a regular basis. For further information on the inspection regime please visit our Highway Safety Inspections web page.

The severity of a pothole and therefore its priority for treatment, is determined by the risk it poses to users of the road or footway. The severity is difficult to judge as all potholes will present some risk, but it takes into account lots of factors including size and depth, traffic or pedestrian flows and position of the pothole in the road or footway relative to the normal track taken by vehicles or pedestrians.

Transport Asset Management Plan (TAMP)

Local councils have for many years been required to demonstrate that they are making best use of their property and other assets through asset management plans. To comply with this requirement, the preparation of an asset management plan for transport-related assets, including the highway is being carried out.

Transport Asset Management Plan policy and report documents below:

• Transport Asset Management Plan Policy 2016 (PDF, 333kb) 
• Transport Asset Management Plan Report 2016 (PDF, 473kb)

Highway maintenance plan

The processes behind how we fulfil this responsibility are fully detailed in our Highway Maintenance Plan (HMP) which is reviewed regularly and updated when required. The latest version, updated in 2014, of the HMP can be viewed using the link below:

Highway Maintenance Plan (PDF, 313kb)

Damaged road surfaces and potholes can cause inconvenience to road users and damage to vehicles.

Report a pothole 

Report a problem with a road or pavement

To minimise the risk of damage, and potholes becoming a major hazard to road users, all of the adopted road network within the county is inspected on a regular basis. For further information on the inspection regime please see Highway safety inspections​.

The severity of a pothole, and therefore its priority for treatment, is determined by the risk it poses to users of the road or footway. The severity is difficult to judge as all potholes will present some risk, but it takes into account lots of factors including size and depth, traffic or pedestrian flows and position of the pothole in the road or footway relative to the normal track taken by vehicles or pedestrians.

DCC website - Roadworks

It is an offence to obstruct the highway - Service Level agreement usually 7 working days unless an emergency e.g. dead animal causing obstrudction is 2 hrs.

Obstructions are objects which have been unlawfully placed on or which overhang the highway.

If the obstruction is causing a danger, please call the police on 101 or 999.

Vehicles

• people trading from a vehicle eg burgers, flowers
• street cruising/parading cars up and down
• vehicle being worked on

Spillages

• mud/debris
• discharge of water
• a vehicle has shed its load

Overhanging trees and hedges

• trees and hedges overhanging a road or pavement
• trees overhanging a street light

Other obstructions

• unauthorised builders skips
• unauthorised scaffolding/hoardings
• unauthorised building materials
• unauthorised vendors/traders not trading from a vehicle
• fallen trees
• structures
• decorative stones and plant pots on highway verge
• enclosure of highway by fencing
• blocking 'Rights of Way'

Caravan

Under Section 143 of the highways Act the parking of a caravan on the highway is classed as an obstruction ( an adopted highway can include the footway, parking area and highway verge) and is therefore not permitted.

Under the Highways Act 1980 and the New Roads and Streetworks Act 1991, we have a duty to license the placing of skips, scaffolds, hoarding and building materials on the highway. In most cases licenses require that these items are placed in such a way so they don't cause an obstruction. In some cases, however, this is impossible, and not all obstructions will be classed as unauthorised.

We have also adopted a policy for the display of goods and advertising on the highway. This policy seeks to actively discourage the placing of goods and advertising on the highway in order to minimise the nuisance and danger they may cause.

If you notice an obstruction of the road or footpath you can report it via our online highways form and we will investigate the complaint. For further information on the various licenses that are available please visit the relevant page.

DCC website - Public rights of way

This is the description of the various types of Public Right of Way and other commonly referred to paths and trails.

Types of Public Rights of Way in County DurhamPublic footpaths

A footpath is a highway on which the public has a right of way on foot. Often, footpaths will cross fields containing livestock or crops, they may be muddy, and generally 'rural' in feel.

Public bridleways

On a bridleway the public has a right of way on foot, on horseback, leading a horse, and on a pedal cycle. Cyclists must give way to riders and pedestrians. These routes may go across farmland, and will probably encounter gates.

Byways Open to all Traffic (BOATs)

As the name suggests, these routes - often simply called byways - are for walkers, horse riders, cyclists and vehicles - including horse-drawn carriages, motorcycles and other motor vehicles. BOATs are sometimes way marked with red arrows.

Prams, wheelchairs, and dogs are considered to be 'usual accompaniments' on all Public Rights of Way. Although the law does not state that dogs must be on a lead, you should ensure your dog is under close control at all times, especially in rural areas where there is livestock.

Signposts

The council has a duty to place a signpost wherever a Public Right of Way leaves a surfaced road. In 2002 we carried out a signpost survey of the whole county and installed new signposts where they were missing, and replaced old or illegible ones. In rural areas we often use wooden finger posts, which are more in keeping with their surroundings. We sometimes do not place signposts in urban areas, where there would simply be too many signs.

Way marks

You may have seen little metal or plastic discs displaying a coloured arrow nailed to fences, stiles or gateposts when you are out for a walk. These are known as way marks. Way marks help to indicate the route and status of a Public Rights of Way, and are as follows:

• Footpaths are identified by a yellow arrow.
• Bridleways are identified by a blue arrow.
• Byways are identified by a red arrow.

In general we will way mark if we feel it will help the path user. Way marks also help the landowner, as they assist path users in keeping to the correct line of the path, thus reducing the chances of trespass occurring. However, we do not wish to way mark every single path, as this would detract from the rural feel of many countryside routes. This is especially the case in the more remote areas of the county such as Upper Teesdale and Weardale.

Permissive paths

These are not rights of way, but routes along which the landowner permits people to walk or ride. The permission may extend just to certain types of user, for example walkers. The permission (which may be a written agreement or just verbal) may be withdrawn by the landowner at any time. Sometimes a landowner may give permission for individuals to use a public footpath on horseback. This is lawful as long as the surface of the footpath is not damaged in any way. A large number of permissive routes have been provided in recent years under the Countryside Stewardship Scheme, which operates across England. Occasionally, farmers provide alternative routes for walkers to avoid a busy working farmyard. This is fine, as long as the definitive route is also available at all times.

Cycle tracks, cycle lanes and cycle paths

Bicycles are vehicles within common law, so they can be used on roads and carriageways. They may also be used on bridleways, and designated cycle tracks. The National Cycle Network (being developed by Sustrans in partnership with local authorities and others) involves sections of cycle path and cycle lane, as well as other routes.

Cyclists and riders in County Durham have access to our valuable network of railway paths, which are managed by our Sites and Rangers team. The railway paths run along former colliery and county branch lines. They can be used by walkers, cyclists and equestrians, but not motorbikes.

Footways and pavements

A footway is a path set out beside a carriageway for pedestrians. You will see these in housing estates, and along side roads. These are generally adopted, in other words, maintained by our Highways team. The footway may not be used by either cyclists or horse riders unless a part of it has been specially set out for their use - in which case, it will be signed and may be surfaced with a different coloured tarmac. If you need to report a problem on a footway or pavement please contact us.

Unsealed public roads

Some of the most minor public roads (sometimes referred to as UCRs - Unclassified County Roads) don't have a sealed surface - they are not covered in tarmac or concrete but have an earth or gravel surface or they may be cobbled. In country areas they are sometimes referred to as green lanes. Cycle riders and walkers can use these routes, as well as vehicular traffic. However, the surface may not be suitable for all users. See online Adopted Highways Map which shows all public roads/highways including UCR's

Green lanes

This term has no legal meaning but is often used to describe certain routes which have no sealed surface. A green lane may also be a Public Rights of Way, or it might be entirely private. If in doubt, check the Definitive Map.

National trails

Sometimes known as long distance paths, there are a number of such routes promoted for walkers or riders by the Natural England such as the Pennine Way, which runs through parts of Upper Teesdale and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

DCC Website - Road safety

Our road safety team supports the reduction of road traffic casualties in County Durham through a series of education programmes, training courses and road safety campaigns. This page gives an overview of their work.

Campaigns

The team are highly professional and deliver some of the best training and most successful road safety awareness campaigns in the county. Our work addresses local, regional and national road safety issues, and working with a number of partners our aim is to educate, inform and encourage safer road user behaviour. 

• School road safety schemes: we provide a variety of road safety training schemes for schools.
• Cycling safety schemes: we provide a cyclist training in schools under the Bikeability (cycling proficiency) scheme.
• Young drivers: EXCELerate is designed to help make young drivers the safest drivers on our roads.
• Older drivers: Safer Driving with Age (SAGE) offers assessments for drivers over 55 years.
• Business driver training: we offer driver training at work for businesses who employ drivers.
• Driving instructors: client centred learning courses for Approved Driving Instructors.
• School crossing patrols: we provide a county wide school crossing patrol service.
• eNewsletter: please contact us to subscribe to our enewsletter to find out more about the work of the team.

Partnership work             

We regularly deliver campaigns with our partners Local motion, Safety Carousel, Wisedrive and the Junior Neighbourhood Watch Scheme.

Do not use this form to report a problem with road works or road work related signs. Instead use council road works - provide feedback form

As the Highway Authority for County Durham, we provide signs to give information to road users.

The Highway Code defines the types of signs used on the road. Examples of the most common signs in normal use fall into certain groups:

• regulatory signs - signs with red circles. Regulatory signs require Traffic Regulation Orders before they can be enforced.
• warning signs - mostly triangular
• direction signs - mostly rectangular, white or green backed. Blue-backed on motorways.
• destination and map-type signs
• information signs - mostly rectangular, generally blue-backed
• cycle route signs - white on blue signs
• pedestrian signing - generally white on green for footpaths and bridleways, white on blue in pedestrian areas, but a variety of colours can now also be used, usually in pedestrian areas

Tourism signage (brown signs)

Tourist signs (brown signs) provides an important opportunity for tourism businesses and local economies, and are implemented positively and constructively. There is an advertising element, as they help to generate impromptu visits. However, the primary purpose is to safely guide those wishing to visit a tourist destination along the most appropriate route for the latter stages of their journey, or to indicate facilities that a tourist would not reasonably expect to find in that location. 

Requesting signage

All signs on our roads must be authorised by us. Special signs are allowed with prior approval of the Department for Transport, or if they are experimental or under trial.

For enquiries about road signs, direction signs, and requests for temporary signs to housing developments, use our online highways form. Please note that requests for tourist direction signage is dealt with separately by our traffic team.

A1(M), A66 and A19

All signage on the A1(M) Motorway and trunk road A66 are dealt with by agents for the Highways Agency, A-One+. All signage on the trunk road A19 is dealt with by agents for the Highways Agency. 

Autolink Concessionaires (A19) Limited
Billingham Reach Industrial Estate
Haverton Hill Road
Billingham
Teeside
TS23 1PX
01642 560 637

DCC website - Road markings

SLA 15 WORKING DAYS

Yellow and white lines are provided where there is a need to restrict parking to help traffic flow smoothly and to prevent obstructions on the road. As the Highway Authority for County Durham, we provide markings to give information to road users. Yellow road markings require a Traffic Regulation Order before they can be laid.

The Highway Code defines the types of road markings used on the road. Road markings warn and inform road users of approaching situations that will require them to take some form of action (for example, a solid white line in the centre of the carriageway means do not overtake). There are also other warning lines on the road, such as stop or give way lines.

Please note that yellow lines apply from the centre of the road to the edge of the highway. This includes pavements and verges alongside the lines, which means that you cannot park on the pavement or a verge alongside a yellow line.

White and yellow lines

Yellow and white lines are provided to help road users by giving different types of information on lane use and directions. 

• Single and double yellow lines indicate that parking restrictions are in place and that no waiting is allowed at any time.
• Single yellow lines indicate that waiting is not allowed during restricted hours (these hours are indicated on a sign plate alongside the lines and we would suggest you check along the length of the line for these plates). Outside of these hours you can park on these lines.

If your vehicle is parked on a single or double yellow line and a Civil Enforcement Officer does not observe any of the activities mentioned below taking place, you may be issued with a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).

Picking up and dropping off passengers

Drivers can stop on yellow lines to pick up passengers, but waiting for passengers is not permitted. When picking up or dropping off, you must stay with your vehicle at all times unless your passengers need help getting in and out of your vehicle.

Disabled parking permits (Blue Badges)

Blue badge holders can park for up to three hours on single or double yellow lines when no loading restrictions are in place and where the vehicle does not cause an obstruction. The blue badge must be displayed and the clock must be set to the time of arrival.

Loading or unloading

Loading / unloading restrictions are shown by yellow markings on the kerb. Single yellow kerb markings mean loading or unloading is restricted during the time shown on the sign plate situated next to the lines. Double yellow kerb markings mean no loading or unloading at any time. Loading and unloading is considered to be taking place where items are being taken to and from a vehicle, but this does not cover packing, unpacking or assembly and stopping to have a conversation. Stopping to go to the toilet is also not covered. As soon as the last item is loaded or unloaded the vehicle must be moved to a parking place.

Other restrictions

Restrictions such as 'School Keep Clear', loading bays and bus stop clearways are all implemented to assist smooth traffic flow on our roads.

A1(M), A66 and A19

All lining matters on the A1(M) Motorway and trunk road A66 are dealt with by agents for the Highways Agency, A-one+ Integrated Highway Services.

All lining matters on the trunk road A19 are dealt with by agents for the Highways Agency. 

Autolink Concessionaires Ltd
Billingham Reach Industrial Estate
Haverton Hill Road
Billingham
Cleveland
TS23 1PX
01642 560 637

SLA - 7 WORKING DAYS INSPECTION OR ASAP WHERE DANGEROUS

Spillages on the highway can lead to hazardous conditions for road users and cause damage to the road surface.

The presence of oil, chemicals, sand and building materials etc on the highway can lead to traffic accidents. If you see an incident or spillage on the highway, please report this to us as a matter of urgency.

We are responsible for street naming and numbering within County Durham.

We are responsible for:

• assigning official street names to new and existing streets
• assigning official property numbers to all new and existing properties
• changes to and allocation of property names
• renaming of streets and renumbering of properties
• the replacement and maintenance of street nameplates
• ensuring that the Royal Mail are notified of new or amended property addresses to enable them to assign post codes
• ensuring that the emergency and essential services are notified of all new properties and streets

The property owner is responsible for:

• clearly displaying their property number
• using the correct official address including the property number (if allocated)

Policy and charges

The street naming and numbering policy, procedures and current charges are available below:

Street Naming and Numbering Policy 2016 (PDF, 436kb)

Street naming and numbering charges 2016 (PDF, 70kb)

New addresses for developments

If you are building a new property or properties, or replacing or redeveloping an existing property into multiple dwellings, you should contact us as soon as possible to arrange for the allocation of addresses.

If you are developing a new street or estate, you should contact us to arrange the numbering of properties and naming of streets as soon as you are ready to begin working on the site as the naming of streets can be a lengthy process.

For a new property we will assign a new number. However, where this is not possible, for example on a road where all the properties already have names and not numbers, we will issue a new property with a name.

Address for new property, building conversion or change of address 2016 (PDF, 103kb)

Adding a name to your numbered property

If you have a numbered property, you may add a property name to the dwelling. However, the house name can only be used in conjunction with the number and not replace it. When choosing a property name, the name should not be the same as, or similar to, another house name in the area. Property owners wishing to add a property name to an existing numbered address will need to complete an application and pay a set fee.

Application to add property name to existing numbered address 2016 (PDF, 105kb)

Changing your property name

We also authorise property name changes. If your property has a name and not a house number and you wish to change the name, you have to obtain approval from us. This is to ensure there is no duplication of house names in the same settlement or locality, which could lead to problems for the emergency services and Royal Mail when locating the property.

Application to change property name 2016 (PDF, 106kb)

Street name plates

To report a damaged or missing street name plate, please contact us using our highways incident online form.

Postcodes

We are not responsible for issuing postcodes. Please contact Royal Mail with any postcode queries.

We are responsible for permanent traffic lights (also known as 'traffic signals') on the county's roads and crossings.

There are 64 sets of traffic signals controlling junctions and bridges.

There are also 73 sets of signal-controlled pedestrian crossings in the county which have facilities for people with sight or hearing difficulties. The signals for people with a visual impairment have 'rotating tactile cones', which are mounted under the push button unit and rotate when it is safe to cross. Others bleep when it is safe to cross. Most pedestrian crossings have red tactile paving to indicate to people with visual impairments where the safe crossing point is located.

Different types of crossing

Traffic signals are used to aid safety and traffic movements, and help pedestrians and cyclists cross the road safely. Various forms of signal-controlled pedestrian crossings are used depending on each individual case. All new crossings will be Toucans or Puffins. Our existing Pelican crossings are gradually being replaced by Toucans or Puffins.

Puffin and Toucan crossings differ from Pelican crossings as there is no flashing green figure phase. On Puffin Crossings, the red and green figures are above the push button on your side of the road. Press the button and wait for the green figure to show. On Toucan crossings, cyclists are permitted to ride across the road.

We are also responsible for zebra crossings and school crossings.

Queries and fault reporting

If you have any queries regarding traffic signals, or wish to report a fault with a traffic signal or crossing, please use our highways online form.

Motorway junctions

Traffic signals at the following A1(M) motorway junctions are the responsibility of the Highways Agency:

• 61 (Bowburn Interchange)
• 62 (Carrville Interchange)
• 63 (Blind Lane Interchange at Chester-le-Street)

If you have any problems with these signals, please contact A-one+ Integrated Highway Services, who look after the junctions for the Highways Agency.

An abandoned vehicle is one which appears to have been left without lawful authority. It may not have been moved for a long time and it may be in poor condition, vandalised or in a dangerous position

What if I have a vehicle I no longer require?

With the introduction of the End of Life Vehicle Directive, there is now a vehicle take back scheme. The Scrap my Car website can give you more information.

How do I report an abandoned vehicle? 

Contact us or use our online form. If you are concerned that a vehicle is abandoned due to not being taxed, please check the vehicle is taxed before reporting.

How do I check if a vehicle is taxed? 

Tax discs are no longer needed. The vehicle tax could be up to date even if it doesn't display a tax disc or if it is displaying an out of date tax disc. Check whether the vehicle is taxed and has an up to date MOT (where applicable) using the check if a vehicle is taxed web page.

NB damaged walls only not a request for a new wall - SLA TO REPAIR 7 WORKING DAYS

We have a statutory duty to ensure that all structures within the area which are considered dangerous are made safe within the shortest possible time period.

During office hours if you are made aware of a dangerous structure, the information must be rang through to  the Building Control Team immediately. The Council has an obligation to attend dangerous structures within an hour of notification.

For reporting dangerous structures out of hours, please call 03000 262 195.

Buildings can become dangerous for a variety of reasons, ranging from settlement or old age, vehicle impact, vandalism or design defects, to more dramatic causes such as fire, explosion or storm damage. As buildings can become dangerous at any time, in order to deal with this, we also operate a 24 hour call out service. Dangerous structures fall into two categories:

• Imminently dangerous: structures which are at risk of imminent collapse and must be secured for public safety. The owner will normally be recharged for emergency works carried out in these cases.
• Hazardous: structures which are unstable but are not imminently dangerous. In these cases, the owner is given a reasonable time to remove the danger. Failure to respond may result in a Magistrates Court Order being obtained. We work closely with the Police, Fire Brigade and external government agencies such as the Health and Safety Executive and the Environment Agency.

All buildings which appear to be dangerous should be reported to us and we will treat the matter with the utmost urgency. If it is considered that a building is imminently dangerous, we can request immediate evacuation and request, or take, any action necessary to protect the public. Such action may involve temporary road closures, barricading, shoring, scaffolding, repairs or demolition.

SLA 5 DAY - PROCESS APPLICATION

It is illegal to dispose of commercial or trade waste at Household Waste Recycling Centres (tips). We offer a trade waste collection service to businesses in County Durham from as little as £92 a year.

Fill in our trade waste form or contact us to arrange a no obligation quote for regular collection of your trade waste.

What is commercial or trade waste?

It is any waste produced from a commercial operation including waste from works or repairs, alterations, construction, improvements or demolition.

Regular trade waste collections

We offer a selection of standard options, based on collections of general waste and recyclable materials. Alternatively, we offer pricing of contracts based on your individual needs.

Bin options

There are a number of options on bins and sacks for your waste disposal needs. The Commercial waste bins crib sheet (PDF, 134kb) shows the different bin sizes available to suit your business. If you're not sure what's the best bin option for your business, we can help.

Find out what goes where

The Commercial waste Bin it Right leaflet (PDF, 638kb) explains what items go in your recycling bin and what items go in your rubbish bin.

Why choose our waste collection service?

Choose us for the following reasons. We:

• have a large fleet of collection vehicles operating throughout the county, manned by reliable and experienced staff
• guarantee our prices are competitive, with no hidden extras
• will work with you to offer fully customised plans to meet your individual needs
• provide a full no obligation consultation and quotation 
• offer continuous customer led service, with friendly and knowledgeable staff
• can accommodate different contract durations, with flexible payment options.

The Commercial waste flyer (PDF, 291kb) explains more.

What other options are available to dispose of commercial / trade waste?

You can dispose of your commercial/trade waste yourself if you are a registered waste carrier or you use a registered waste carrier. Find out more about the legal disposal of commercial or trade waste. 

Landlords have a legal obligation under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to responsibly dispose of all waste arising from lettings. Failure to do so could lead to prosecution.

The waste is defined as business or commercial waste so cannot be taken to any of our Household Waste Recycling Centres (tips).

Tenants

If you're a tenant the information on this page does not apply - unless you try to dispose of waste on behalf of your landlord.

LandlordsWhat is defined as 'waste from landlords'?

The following are defined as 'waste from landlords':

• Waste that is generated from improvements, repairs or alterations.
• Waste that is left after a tenant leaves.
• Discarded fixtures and fittings that have been supplied as part of the terms of a lease.
• Waste that is removed on behalf of a tenant, rather than being disposed of by the tenant themselves.

Landlords attempting to take this type of waste to an HWRC risk being fined up to £50,000 or even imprisonment.

Legal disposal of landlords' waste

A landlord can legally dispose of their waste in a number of ways:

• Contact us to arrange a special collection of a large item via our commercial or trade waste collection service.
• Contact a local furniture reuse scheme to have unwanted furniture and electrical items reused at no extra cost to the landlord.
• Set up a commercial waste contract with a suitably licensed waste contractor. You can get help with this by contacting the environment agency.
• Take your waste to a suitably licensed facility such as a waste disposal company. You may need a registered waste carrier licence. Contact the Environment Agency for advice.

SLA'S - INSPECTION 7 WORKING DAYS, OTHER 10 WORKING DAYS, TRAFFIC ASSETS 15 WORKING DAYS

Street furniture can range from public seats to non-illuminated and illuminated road signs and bollards.

We have a responsibility to maintain existing street furniture such as:

• traffic signal poles
• street lighting columns
• direction signs and posts
• pedestrian crossings, pelican and toucan crossings
• bollards
• pedestrian guardrails
• seats
• litter bins
• street nameplate signs
• monuments
• dog litter bins

If you find a problem please contact us.

DCC Website - Drainage and Water supplies

SLA 7-10 WORKING DAYS

Help and information about drainage and who to contact if you have a problem.

• Private water supplies
• Land drainage and watercourses
• Public/household drains and sewers
• Sustainable drainage systems
• Road drains and gullies

Information on council policy and central government guidance about using brown tourist signs.

In 1996, Durham County Council along with other highway authorities in England and Wales developed a tourist signing policy in line with Department for Transport and County Surveyors' Society guidance. It was developed in order to address a recognised traffic management and road safety function.

In addition, it was recognised that the numerous and diverse demands for suitable signage from the tourism sector dictated that an open and fair assessment framework be developed. This was carried out in conjunction with the then Northumbrian Tourist Board, the English Tourist Board, and the county and district tourist groups.

The original policy has now been revised in line with more recent guidance, most notable the Highways Agency Design Manual for Roads and Bridges TA94/04. Changes have included the creation of the Visit Britain organisation (previously the English Tourist Board), and changes in the types of attractions and facilities that have been developed since the original policy.

It should be noted that we do not act independently in assessing the worth or otherwise of any individual application for signage. The policy sets out how we utilise the standards set out by organisations such as Visit Britain, the Durham Tourism Partnership and our use of the Visitors Charter.

Purpose of brown tourist signs

While it is recognised that white on brown signs are perceived by tourist businesses as useful marketing tools, this is not the purpose for which they are provided. They should not be used as a means of circumventing planning control of advertisements, nor as a substitute for good promotion of the business. Their main purpose is to guide visitors to their intended destination along the most appropriate route during the latter stage of their journey, particularly where the destination may be difficult to find. Like all directional signs, they should only be used where they will benefit road users, ie as an aid to navigation and for traffic management and road safety reasons.

The numbers of signs approved will be those that are deemed the minimum necessary to find the destination. This cuts down on unnecessary clutter and reflects the uses of alternative way-finding technologies such as satellite navigation and the internet.

White on brown directional signs are traffic signs and must comply with The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions and the guidance for their use. Signs should also comply with the design guidance given in chapter seven of the Traffic Signs Manual.

Cost of signs

The provision of white on brown tourist signs is at no cost to the highway authority. All costs are to be covered by the applicant.

Applications

If you have read the policy, meet the criteria and want to submit an application for brown tourist signs, please contact us with the following information and we will send you an application pack.

• name of attraction/facility
• address of attraction/facility including postcode
• type of business (ie. hotel, theme park)
• contact details of applicant - name, address (if different to 2), telephone number, email

Once all avenues for resolving a hedge dispute have been exhausted, a complaint about a neighbour's evergreen hedge can be made to the council.

An overview of the legislation

The council has the power, under the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003 and the High Hedges Regulations 2005, to deal with complaints about high hedges which affect residential properties.

• The legislation does not require all hedges to be cut down to a height of two metres. 
• You do not have to get permission to grow a hedge above two metres.
• When a hedge grows over two metres, the local council does not automatically take action, unless a justifiable complaint is made. 
• If you complain to your local council, it does not automatically follow that they will order your neighbour to reduce the height of their hedge. They have to weigh-up all the issues and consider each case on its merits. 
• The legislation does not cover single or deciduous trees. 
• The local authority cannot require the hedge to be removed. 
• The legislation does not guarantee access to uninterrupted light. 
• There is no provision to serve an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (ASBO) in respect of high hedge complaints.

When are you entitled to make a complaint?

Once all avenues for resolving a hedge dispute have been exhausted, a complaint about a neighbour's evergreen hedge can be made to us.

What you must do

You should complete a planning enforcement complaint form and send it to your local area office.

As part of the application, you will have to show that all reasonable attempts have been taken to resolve the dispute before involving us. We will not normally accept an application where there is no substantiated evidence that the negotiation process has been pursued.

You must notify anyone else with an interest in the property affected by the hedge and the owner and/or occupier of the property where the hedge is growing. A fee must be sent with the application form which will contribute towards the cost of administering the complaint. The fee for a High Hedges Complaint is £385.

Our role

Our role is not to mediate or negotiate between the complainant and the hedge owner but to adjudicate on whether - in the words of the The Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003 (High Hedges) - 'the hedge is adversely affecting the complainant's reasonable enjoyment of their property'.

In doing so, we must take account of all relevant factors and must strike a balance between the competing interests of the complainant and hedge owner, as well as the interests of the wider community.

If we consider that the circumstances justify it, a formal notice will be issued to the hedge owner, which will set out what they must do to the hedge to remedy the problem, and when by. Failure to carry out the works required is an offence which could lead to a fine.

What happens next

We must decide whether the hedge is adversely affecting your reasonable enjoyment of your property. So that we can make this judgement, we will take account of all relevant factors and strike a balance between the interests of you, the complainant, the hedge owner and the interests of the wider community. Consultations may also be involved in the decision-making process. 

A prime factor in determining any complaint will be the long-term health of the hedge. Government advice indicates that it would be inappropriate to require a reduction in the height of a hedge to a level that would result in its eventual death.

A formal decision will be made and copied to anyone who has an interest in the property affected by the hedge and the owner and/or occupier of the site where the hedge is growing.

Any information supplied to us in support of a formal high hedges complaint, can be made available to any other parties who request access to this information.

Your right to appeal

If you disagree with our decision on a complaint about a high hedge, or the hedge owner disagrees with a remedial notice issued by us, there is a process for asking the independent Planning Inspectorate to review the case. This is known as an appeal. The Planning Inspectorate has prepared guidance on high hedges appeals, this guidance and the relevant forms can be found through the web links on this page.

FAQsHow can I demonstrate that I have attempted to negotiate with my neighbour?

Before a complaint can be registered, you must be able to demonstrate that you have made all reasonable attempts to resolve the matters without the involvement of the council. Verbal negotiation will count towards this requirement, but it would be usual for there to have been written communication with your neighbours before you ask us to register your complaint.

Evidence is required to substantiate each approach, for example, your written account of a meeting, a copy of a letter you have written, together with any reply. At least one written attempt to resolve the dispute must be made after the legislation came into effect on 1 June 2005.

DCC website - Protected trees

Trees are an important part of our heritage and environment. In England, Local Planning Authorities have the power to protect important trees by making a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). Trees are also protected if they are in a Conservation Area.

Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)

A TPO is a legal document made, administered and enforced by us as the local planning authority. It protects specified trees and woodlands with public amenity value. A TPO prevents cutting down, uprooting, topping, lopping, wilful damage or destruction of trees (including cutting roots) without our permission.

Works on Protected Trees

If you intend to carry out any work to protected trees, you must apply for consent from us first. If you do not own the tree you must obtain the owner's permission before carrying out the work.

You may also need to submit supporting technical information if the reason for your application relates to the condition of the tree - for example due to the presence of pests, diseases, fungi, or structural defects affecting the safety of the tree. Written evidence from an appropriate arboricultural professional may be required to support your application. The Arboricultural Association has a list of arboriculturalists who are members. If the reason for your application relates to suspected structural damage caused by the tree, please submit a report from a structural engineer/surveyor together with technical advice to support your application.

Once an application has been submitted, we may either grant or withhold consent for work on a tree with a TPO or we may give a conditional consent. Permission to fell a preserved tree usually carries a condition to plant a replacement, which will automatically become the subject of the TPO.

If there are trees which you think should be protected or if you have seen work being carried out on a protected tree and want to know if the owner has permission, please contact us.

Penalties

If you carry out work on a protected tree without our consent, this may result in a criminal prosecution and a fine of up to £20,000. Consent is not required where the tree is dead or dangerous, but we should be given five working days notice before any works are carried out, unless works are urgently necessary to remove an immediate risk of serious harm. In this case you should notify us as soon as practicable after the works become necessary.

Rights to appeal

You have a right of appeal (see for Planning Portal: Tree Preservation and Replacement Appeals details)  both against the making of a TPO or any refusal of consent to do work to the tree.

Which trees are covered by a TPO?

A TPO can protect anything from a single tree to all trees within a defined group or woodland. There are currently around 700 TPOs in County Durham. We are currently in the process of a re-survey of all the existing orders. contact us to find out if your tree is covered by a TPO, or look for TPOs on our map.

SLA - 2 HOURS IF CAUSING OBSTRUCTION, OTHERWISE ASAP

We provide a free service for the removal of dead animals from all public spaces.

Landowners are responsible for dead animals on their own property. Unfortunately, we do not remove dead animals from private residences. We would recommend that you contact a pet crematorium.

Request animal removal from public land or a public space 

Please contact us. We will need to know the following details: location of dead animal; brief details of animal, such as type, colour (identifying marks) and size, and the time you saw the animal. 

SLA RESPONSE - ASAP

Anti-social behaviour covers a range of activities that affect people's enjoyment of their homes and communities. This page provides information on where to find help and other useful information.

If you require immediate assistance please phone the police on 101 or 999. 

We can report anti-social behaviour to us:

• general anti-social behaviour (includes vandalism, football and ball games complaints, Off Road Bikes (PDF, 232kb))
• high hedges
• illegal bonfires
• needles and drugs equipment
• noise
• rubbish in gardens or yards (if the house itself is empty, please see our empty homes page)

We will fully investigate any complaint we receive.

Other help and advice

• If you are a tenant with any former council housing company or other housing association, you can find more information on their website.
• Neighbourhood wardens work to improve the quality of life for residents by reducing the level of anti-social behaviour. Numbers of incidents are included in their monthly performance reports.

Hate crime and incidents

Hate crimes and incidents can often be misinterpreted as acts of anti-social behaviour. However, if the incident is perceived to be motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person's:

• race, ethnic origin, or nationality
• religion
• sexual orientation
• disability
• transgender

Then it is a hate crime or hate incident. For help, please visit our Hate crimes and incidents web page.

Multi-Agency Intervention Service (MAIS)

The Multi-Agency Intervention Service (MAIS) brings a range of agencies together to support adults who continually cause anti-social behaviour or crime in our communities.

REMOVAL OF A BONFIRE FROM COUNCIL SPACE - SLA ASAP

Garden bonfires are not illegal, even in a smoke control area, but there are laws for the nuisance they can cause.

Burning domestic waste

You can't burn household waste if it will cause pollution or harm people's health. Dry garden waste can be burnt.

Dispose of household or garden waste by composting or recycling it.

• Use our garden waste collections page to find out about the service and how to subscribe.
• Find out more about how to dispose of waste and what you can recycle in County Durham on our What goes in which bin? page.

Danger to traffic by smoke

You could be fined if you light a fire and you allow the smoke to drift across the road and become a danger to traffic.

Complain about a neighbours' bonfire

We can issue an abatement notice if a neighbour's bonfire is causing a nuisance. Your neighbour can be fined up to £5,000 if they don't stick to the notice.

A bonfire must happen frequently to be considered a nuisance.

To report a bonfire that is causing a nuisance contact us.

Flyposting is an illegal activity and creates a negative impression of an area.

What is flyposting?

Flyposting is the unauthorised advertising of posters and flyers in public areas.

What we will do if we find flyposting - SLA REMOVAL - ASAP

We will remove flyposting from accessible areas which are in public view. 

Report flyposting online or contact us. We will need the exact location and description of the flyposting.

Graffiti is an illegal activity that creates a negative impression of an area and can be very unsightly. We will investigate and remove graffiti where possible.

Graffiti removal - SLA REMOVAL - ASAP

We will investigate and remove graffiti from accessible areas which are in public view. However, in some circumstances it may not be possible to remove the graffiti because of access problems or due to the fabric of the building. During the normal working day, offensive graffiti will be removed within 24 hours of notification wherever possible. Other graffiti will be removed within three working days wherever possible.

If the graffiti is on your property and you request removal, it will be necessary for you to sign a disclaimer form before any removal work is carried out.

Reporting graffiti 

Report graffiti online or contact us. Please provide as much information as possible, such as: location and description of graffiti.

Has your bin been damaged, lost or stolen? Have you recently moved into a new home? Do you have six or more people in your household and need more bin space?

My bin has been damaged

Contact us - if it can be repaired, we'll do this free of charge.

My bin is lost or stolen

Contact us for a replacement. There is a £20 charge. This pays for the replacement bin, administration costs and the delivery of the bin. After the initial £20 charge - if your bin goes missing again (within a calendar year) we will replace it free of charge.

My recycling box is lost or stolen

Contact us and we'll send you a replacement free of charge.

I have just moved into a new home

If you have just moved into a new-build property we will provide you with a rubbish and recycling bin and box free of charge.

If you move into an existing property you should use the bins that are already at that property. If there is no bin, contact us for a replacement. There is a £20 charge.

Privately rented properties

If you are a tenant of a private rented property, it is the responsibility of your landlord to provide refuse and recycling containers at the property. Please contact your landlord to arrange this.

I need an extra bin

Most households will fit all their waste into their rubbish bin if they are recycling as much as possible.

Excess household waste can be taken to your local Household Waste Recycling Centre (tip).

If your household has six or more people permanently living there and you need more bin space, contact us to apply for an additional bin. Before you apply, consider ways to cut down your waste. 

Garden waste bin

If you would like an extra garden waste bin you will need to pay the £20 fee and the additional subscription to empty the bin. See Garden waste collections to apply for an extra garden waste bin.

We are committed to putting our customers first. However, if you are unhappy with any of our services, this page tells you how to make a complaint so we can do our best to put it right for you.

You can make a complaint online or contact us by telephone or post. Before you do, please check what isn't a complaint and which services have different complaints procedures.

• What isn't a complaint?
• Which services have a different complaints procedure?

 What information do we need when you make a complaint?

Please include the following details:

• The service and /or person you are concerned about.
• The date, time and location of the problem and the effect this may have had on you or others.
• What you expected to happen.
• Your name, address and contact details.
• Any other information you think may help us to investigate your concerns.

 What happens with your complaint?

If we cannot resolve it immediately we will:

• Acknowledge receipt of your complaint within two working days.
• Give you a complaint reference number.
• Let you know how long we think it will take to respond to your complaint.
• Investigate and provide you with a response.

 What happens if you are unhappy with our response?

If you are dissatisfied with the response to your complaint we will consider an independent investigation by our corporate complaints team. 

If we believe there is no value in an independent investigation then you will be advised to contact the Local Government Ombudsman (LGO). 

What isn't a complaint?

There are some situations that are not dealt with under the complaints process:

• Reports of problems such as a pothole or a faulty street lights - please use the report it page.
• Application for a service - please use the  apply for it page or see the appropriate web page.
• Explanations of policy or practise.
• Requests for information - please see our page on Freedom of Information..
• Where a service has a right of appeal - please use the relevant appeals procedure eg planning appeals.
• A complaint that has been heard by a court or tribunal.

To make a complaint about other services, please use the specific information below:

• adult social care: Compliments comments and complaints about adult social care (PDF, 354kb)
• children's services: Compliments comments and complaints about childrens services (PDF, 370kb)
• children's services: a young person's guide to comments, compliments and complaints' (PDF, 927kb)
• schools: contact the head teacher of the relevant school. For advice, contact the School and Governor Support Service.
• County councillors
• council housing

The Data Protection Act gives an individual the right to access personal data held about them by organisations.

There are several ways in which your request may be dealt with depending on the information you require. Further information and contact details relating to these can be found on the following pages:

• Access to personal social care records
• Pupil records for education records held by schools. Please note, however, that these will need to be requested from the specific school in question.

If your request doesn't fit into one of these categories you will need to submit a Subject Access Request (SAR). To do this, please download and complete Subject Access Request Form (PDF, 23kb).

If you are applying for personal information which is CCTV footage, you will need to download and complete SAR form for CCTV (PDF, 73kb).

When completed, the form should be returned, along with the statutory £10 fee. You can also contact us for any help and advice relating to requesting your personal information.

http://www.durham.gov.uk/article/2256/Order-a-copy-of-a-certificate

One-off riddance work – Universal charges:

 Wasps / Bees - £49.50 for a single treatment visit.

 Ants – £99.00 for an initial treatment and one follow-up visit.

 One-off riddance work – Charges for properties up to the equivalent  of an average 3 bedroom house (free quotes are provided for larger properties):

 Rats / mice / squirrels – £148.50 for up to three visits.

 Fleas / beetles / moths – £49.50 for a single treatment visit.

 Bed bugs – £99.00 for an initial treatment and one follow up visit.

 All other pest types £49.50 for a single treatment visit.

A 14 day consultation took place between 9 and 23 July providing the opportunity for any person to express views and make representations on a proposed ‘table of maximum fares’. No comments were received and therefore the new table of fares/ tariffs will come into effect on midnight tomorrow, 6 August 2016. The new table of fares will be able to view here from the time they come into effect. 

Please note that the new tariffs will be the maximum fares that may be charged however, taxi operators do not have to charge the maximum if they do not wish. Therefore taxi fares will not automatically increase.

In terms of the second part of the query relating to displaying the new fares in taxis, if a taxi driver is charging the new fare they must have the news fares displayed in their taxi.

• If a Customer calls to say that they would like the Pest Control Officer to revisit (Wasps, Bees, Insects etc) because they don’t believe that the original treatment has worked, the Customer will be required to pay a further £40.
• A new request should be created and noted that the Customer believes that the original treatment did not work. 
• If the Pest Control Officer determines that it is a continuation of the original problem, the customer will receive a full refund for the second call.  If it is a new problem/infestation, no refund will be offered. 

A letter has been sent to the following properties to advise residents of the change to their collection points in line with the lane ends programme:

The Barn and the Cottage at Cooks hold farm, Sherburn Hill

Haswell lodge, Haswell

Hospital Farm, Salters lane, Haswell

Parklands Stud, Salters lane Haswell

Seven Acres Farm, Haswell Plough

The change to collection point for these properties will start from week commencing 5th September.

The Lanes End Consultation request is not currently available on the new CRM, so should any of these residents contact us and want to discuss with the refuse team, can you please log as a Generic Service Request.

Improvement works starting

Improvement works on North Road, Durham will start next week to replace paving, create wider areas for outdoor seating, and alter the road layout to improve traffic flow and road safety.

Work starts on Monday 3 October 2016 and will last approximately six months. It will be business as usual for retailers, shoppers and visitors during the improvements.

Affected motorists are advised to consider their route when planning journey’s when travelling through the city centre.

Suspension of works for Christmas trading

Work will be suspended between Wednesday 30 November 2016 and Wednesday 4 January 2017 for the Christmas trading period.

 Disruption and diversions

(Please see the illustration artwork attached)

Pedestrians should expect some disruption while the pavement improvements are carried out but all shops and businesses will still be accessible.

Work will take place outside one or two businesses at a time and signed diversions will be in place where necessary.

• Buses that normally travel along the one-way section of the street, at the opposite end to the bus station, will be diverted back up North Road to the roundabout and towards Milburngate Bridge while the work to realign the road is carried out.
• Temporary bus stops will be in place outside the bus station and at the Methodist Church. Bus stops on Milburngate, opposite The Gates, will be suspended.
• The taxi rank on North Road will be temporarily relocated further up the road, opposite Neville Street, with an additional rank in place opposite The Gates on Milburngate.

 More detailed information is available at www.durham.gov.uk/northroad  

DCC website link Driving in snow and ice

Snow and ice can make driving dangerous. Follow our top tips to keep safe on the roads this winter.

Before winter

• Get a winter car check to make sure your vehicle is safe.
• Add a low temperature screen wash to the wash bottle and ensure it is kept topped up.
• Check lights and indicators are working.
• Check tyres have a good tread depth (legal minimum 1.6mm).
• Check the battery is in good working order.
• Plan where you will park your car to avoid it getting stuck.
• Let someone know your intended route and expected time of arrival.
• If you have a mobile phone, make sure it is fully charged.

During snow and ice

• Unless your journey is absolutely necessary, stay at home.  
• Keep the windscreen and windows clear of snow and ice.
• Allow extra time for your journey and take regular breaks.
• Allow at least ten seconds stopping time between you and the vehicle in front.
• Accelerate, steer and brake more gently.
• Use dipped headlights.
• Avoid high and remote areas where snow conditions may be more severe.
• Take a hot drink, water and food with you.
• Make sure you have a snow shovel, tow bar or other equipment to help if your car gets stuck.
• Gritters work at speeds lower than normal traffic speed, if you are behind one please don't try to overtake.

If you do get into difficulty

• Stay with your vehicle until help arrives.
• If you have to leave your vehicle, make sure you are visible to other road users and let the police know.
• Stay close to the road, don't wander off into remote areas. 

DCC websitde link Stay warm, well and safe this winter

Stay warm, well and safe this winter - Durham

Follow our winter safety advice to keep your family warm and healthy, and your driving safe on icy roads.

Follow us on Twitter #twittergritterNE to keep up to date with our winter roads service.

Winter essentials

• Have salt/grit/cat litter for driveways and paths, a snow shovel and other snow removal equipment. Find out where your nearest salt bin is. 
• Always be careful when driving in snow and ice. Make sure your car is prepared with a winter car check.
• Follow Northumbrian Water's beat the freeze advice to avoid burst water pipes know where to turn off your water.

Look out for your neighbours

Look after elderly or vulnerable friends and neighbours. If you are worried about someone call Social Care Direct

Keeping warm and well 

If you have a long-term condition or you are over 65 download Important information from the NHS to help you to stay well this winter (PDF, 1Mb).

Before winter

• Check if you qualify for a grant to have insulation or other energy saving measures installed. Find out more on about getting help to reduce your energy bills.
• Contact your energy supplier and make sure you are on the right energy tariff.
• Get a supply of blankets to keep you warm in case the heating goes off.

Further information and advice on keeping your home warm is available on our warmer, energy efficient and environmentally friendly housing page. 

During cold weather

• Wear several layers of loose fitting clothes.
• Wear boots/shoes with a good grip for walking in the snow and good warm socks.
• Try and keep your heating to a constant temperature of between 18°C and 21°C during the day and at least 18°C at night.
• Think about other ways of keeping warm like closing the curtains, hot water bottles or electric blankets. 

Keeping healthyBefore winter

• Get a flu jab, even if you got one last year. Check with your GP/doctor to find out if you qualify for a free jab.
• Have a supply of your prescription drugs and other medicine.
• Have a week's worth of food supplies, including bread in the freezer, long-life milk and non-cook foods. If you live far from other people, have more supplies on hand.
• Keep a water supply in case a pipe bursts.

During cold weather

• Hypothermia can be a danger in cold weather. Look after elderly and vulnerable people and if you think someone has hypothermia call 999 for an ambulance immediately.
• Stay active - keep moving, even if you're sitting down. Just wiggling your fingers and toes will help you keep warm.
• Eat well - make sure you have hot meals and drinks regularly throughout the day to keep your body warm.

Road weather station cameras - Durham

Road weather station cameras

Website link

We have several weather station cameras next to roads in the county. You can use them to see what the weather and traffic is like on those roads.

Road weather station cameras - Durham

Please select a weather station below:

• A181 Running Waters
• A68 Tow Law
• A689 Bradbury
• A689 Lanehead
• A689 Toronto
• B1432 Hawthorn
• B6277 Forest In Teesdale
• B6302 Ushaw Moor
• B6309 Medomsley

Following feedback the CRM team have been reviewing some routing errors that have been identified when logging gully problems. A gullie is essentially a grate or cover often found at the road side.

• When a gully is blocked - requests to deal with blocked or flooded gullies are sent through via the drainage and flooding form.

• Where a gullie has sunken this request is not a flooding/ drainage request and therefore must be requested via the manhole and utility covers form.

These requests should be logged as a Compliment and Suggestion.

Online gritting map

Customer service FAQs 

What does the map show?

The map shows details of which roads are scheduled to be gritted and which roads have recently been gritted.

How often is the map updated?

The map is updated twice a day and shows gritting plans for two time periods: 2.00am - 2.00pm and 2.00pm to 2.00am.

There is nothing displayed on the map/there are no coloured routes on the map.

If there are no coloured routes on the map it means there are no plans to grit and there hasn't been any gritting in the current time period.

The map is showing some roads in purple. What does this mean?

If the road is displaying a purple colour, it means it is proposed to grit that route during the current gritting period.

The map is showing some roads in green. What does this mean?

If the road is displaying a green colour, it means that section of the route has been gritted recently (in the current time period).

How do I find out what time the road was gritted.

If the route is displaying a green colour, you can find out what time a particular part of the road was last gritted by clicking on that part of the road on the map. A text box will display showing the location and the time the road was last gritted.

Why can you not guarantee the information is entirely accurate?

There may be occasions where circumstances are beyond our control, for example if weather conditions change quickly or there are problems with technology.

Why is my road not gritted?

We only grit priority 1 or 2 routes unless in very exceptional circumstances.

I did not see the gritters but the map shows a route has been gritted. 

Ask the customer to provide the location and the time and then contact the service area so that they can check the log.

As part of the ongoing development works the Riverside Walk (outside of The Gates Shopping Centre, Durham) team have notified us that the public toilets will close on Monday 13th February and will remain closed until the summer of 2018.  This closure is part of the approved development plans

Garden Waste subscriptions are for domestic premises.  Allotments cannot therefore subscribe.

No, the Public Health Team will not deal with this type of request if it is reported anonymously.

SLA - 7 DAYS

If you're experiencing difficulties in putting your bin out and don't have anyone who can help you, apply for our assisted bin collection service.

You can request help with your bin if you are struggling to put it out yourself.

You can also contact us or visit one of our customer access points for an assessment form. 

What we'll do when we receive your application

We'll make a decision based on your application and then contact you.

What happens if your application is approved

Your assisted collections will start within 14 days.

We will need to have unrestricted access to your rubbish and recycling containers from 7.00am on the collection day.

The collection crew will pull out, empty and return your bin from / to the agreed location.

If your circumstances change you must inform us.

SLA 15 WORKING DAYS

If you need to drive over the pavement or verge to park on your property, you need to apply for a licence to have a properly constructed crossing. You also need to re-apply if you want to extend an existing crossing.

Please follow the process below to apply for a licence.

Do I need planning permission?

You must apply for planning permission before you apply for a licence if:

• the access is on to a classified road (A, B or C road)
• you are also creating/amending a drive/hard standing within your property boundary

Applying for a licence

Please make sure you have read our Dropped kerb licence conditions and FAQs (PDF, 33kb) before applying. 

Download our Vehicle crossing application form and information (PDF, 225kb) to apply - note there is a £135 licence fee.

What happens next?

After we receive your application, we will check to make sure the location isn't a problem.

If you are successful, you will receive a confirmation letter and will be required to pay the licence fee. You will also receive our approved contractors list - you must get the work done by one of these companies.

If you are unsuccessful, you will be told why, and no fee will be charged.

Getting the crossing built

Only contractors approved by us can carry out the work. Before starting work your contractor must:

• give us at least seven days notice of intention to start work so we can arrange inspection of the site
• contact our Street lighting team to determine whether any street lighting equipment is likely to be affected
• give notice to any companies who have pipes, cables etc in the area, e.g. gas, water, electricity, that may be affected
• comply with our work specification which will be issued when permission is granted

It is illegal to place ramps in the highway to access your property. Ramps can be dangerous to pedestrians, cyclists and passing vehicles and may obstruct the flow of surface water on the road. If an illegal crossing has been constructed or it is considered to be in a dangerous location, you may need to reconstruct the crossing to an approved standard or remove it completely.

Once under construction, an inspector will visit the site to confirm the crossing is being built to our specification.

Our policy is to enable roads and footpaths to be used safely by providing, improving and maintaining effective and efficient street lighting and illuminated traffic signs. This helps to improve environmental standards and reduce energy and carbon dioxide.

We currently manage and maintain 80,000 street lights and 5,500 illuminated traffic signs on the county road network.

Street light policy document

These requests should be logged as Anti Social Behaviour.

Issues related to Noise under the ‘Anti-Social Behaviour’ SR should be done when the person reporting is under the impression that the noise is being aimed specifically at them as an individual/family or if the noise (whilst not directed at the individual) is due to shouting, screaming or crying and is coming from a domestic premises as there may be domestic abuse taking place and therefore the ASB team would have concerns.

For cases where noise is affecting the wider community and is not being aimed at an individual/family, such as a barking dog, this needs to be logged under ‘Noise complaint’ SR.