As of 1st September 2023, the UK government introduced updated regulations concerning wood waste recycling. These changes follow five years of industry research and testing, particularly from the [Wood Recyclers’ Association (WRA)](https://woodrecyclers.org/). While they primarily affect the construction and demolition industries, households also need to stay informed—especially when disposing of wood from older properties.

Why the Rules Changed

The Environment Agency officially **withdrew Regulatory Position Statement (RPS) 250**, which had allowed certain types of potentially hazardous wood—mainly from buildings built before 2007—to be treated as non-hazardous. Now, **ten specific wood types** from that period must be **tested before recycling** or disposed of as hazardous waste.

This is based on evidence that wood preserved with chemicals (such as creosote or CCA) could pose a risk if handled or incinerated improperly.

Ten Wood Types Now Regulated

• Barge boards  

• External fascia  

• Soffit boards  

• External joinery  

• External doors  

• Roof timber  

• Tiling cladding  

• Tiling battens  

• Timber frames  

• Timber joists  

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Wood Waste Grades Explained

Wood waste is now categorised into four general grades by the WRA:

• Grade A: Clean, untreated softwood and pallets – non-hazardous  

• Grade B: Industrial/commercial waste with potential treatments – often non-hazardous but may require sorting  

• Grade C: Demolition timber, fencing, chipboard – potentially hazardous and requires processing or testing  

• Grade D: Hazardous waste, including preserved or chemically treated wood (e.g. creosote or CCA treated) – must go to licensed hazardous waste facilities  

While Grade D is not a formal legal term, it is used widely by the industry to designate hazardous wood types.  

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What This Means for Households

For households, particularly those undergoing **DIY or renovation projects** on properties built before 2007, it’s vital to consider these changes. If you suspect your waste includes one of the regulated wood types, contact your [local authority](https://www.gov.uk/find-your-local-council) or waste contractor before disposal.

Current Rules for Domestic Wood Waste

Currently, RPS 249 allows Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) to temporarily mix domestic hazardous wood with non-hazardous loads. However, this exemption will be withdrawn on 1st April 2024. After that, stricter separation and testing requirements will apply.  

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The WRA expects the volume of hazardous wood in household waste to decline over time as older buildings are replaced or upgraded.

How Skip Hire Comparison Is Adapting

At Skip Hire Comparison, we are working closely with our suppliers and partners to ensure safe and compliant wood disposal across the UK. We aim to minimise confusion and improve accessibility for both households and businesses seeking to dispose of wood waste legally and responsibly.

If your project includes older wood items like doors, beams, or soffits, we can help determine the right disposal route and, where necessary, arrange testing or hazardous waste collection.

Need Advice?

If you're unsure whether your wood waste is hazardous or need help with disposal, contact our friendly team today. We're here to guide you through the new regulations and ensure your waste is dealt with safely and sustainably.

Contact: info@skiphirecomparison.com or call **0333 335 5660**