The Cape Navigator

In a concerning trend, the City of Cape Town has issued a warning to residents as the theft of wheelie bins sees a significant spike in 2023. According to recent data, reported cases of stolen bins have risen to 29,330, up from 28,653 in the previous year.

Alderman Grant Twigg, Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, has emphasized the need for residents to remain vigilant and promptly report stolen bins. Twigg highlighted that such timely reports enable proactive measures to address the issue and ensure the smooth continuation of refuse collection services.

To streamline the process for residents whose bins have been stolen, the City has outlined necessary steps. If a resident’s bin is stolen, they can request a replacement by sending an email to wastewise@capetown.gov.za with the following information:

• Municipal account number
• Residential address
• Name and contact number
• If renting, include a letter of authority from the owner or managing agent

Upon reporting, residents will be issued a reference number, and their new bin should be delivered within 10 working days. During this waiting period, the City assures that bagged waste at the property will still be collected.

Tenants in Council rental stock are advised to visit their nearest housing office for further information on the replacement process. Additionally, a “Replacing a Stolen or Damaged Bin Pamphlet” (available in English/Afrikaans/Xhosa) can be downloaded for more details.

Alderman Twigg also highlighted the responsibility of property owners to provide an adequate number of wheelie bins for all residents on their property. He urged property owners with larger households or additional tenants to apply for extra bins at the relevant tariff. This, he explained, would play a crucial role in reducing illegal dumping and maintaining the cleanliness of communities.

To apply for additional bins, residents are encouraged to download and complete the “Supply of Services Application Form” available on the City’s website. The form should be submitted with a certified copy of ID at the nearest Walk-in Centre or emailed to wastewise@capetown.gov.za. For those renting, a letter of authority from the property owner or managing agent is required with the application form.

The City of Cape Town remains committed to addressing the challenge of wheelie bin theft and encourages the community’s cooperation to ensure the effective functioning of waste management services.