Waste transfer notes for garden clearance: what goes on one
Checked against official sources, October 2026. This guide uses England as its example. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland differ.
A waste transfer note is a short written record that goes with every load of waste you take from a customer. In England you must complete one for each transfer and keep a copy for two years.
What goes on it
- Who gave you the waste and who you are
- Your waste carrier registration number
- A description of the waste, such as green garden waste, soil or mixed rubbish
- The waste code, for example 20 02 01 for garden and park waste
- The quantity and how it is packed
- The date and time, and where it is going
- Signatures from both sides
One note per job, or a season ticket
A separate note for each collection is the simple route. For regular customers, a single note can cover repeat collections of the same waste for up to 12 months. Check the conditions on gov.uk.
Keeping them
Keep every note, signed, for two years. If the council or the Environment Agency ask, this is the first thing they want to see.
Save the time
Writing them out by hand on every job is where most people give up. The Ready Set Comply UK pack fills in your business details once, then prints a numbered book of notes ready to sign.
Working outside England?
Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland each have their own regulator, fees and penalties. See Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, or working across borders.
More guides
- How to register as a waste carrier
- Working across borders
- Do I need a waste carrier licence to clear gardens?
- How much does waste carrier registration cost?
- The fine for carrying waste without registration
- Council rules for garden clearance in England
- If the council asks for your paperwork
- Garden waste disposal records
General guidance, not legal advice. Check current rules on gov.uk. Disclaimer.