Kent’s recycling centre rules for 2025 now come with clearer guidance on which vans can and can’t use local household waste sites. If you’re planning a tip run in Medway, knowing what vans you can use is essential. This guide explains the 2025 rules in simple terms and shows which Hire2You vans are accepted at Kent and Medway recycling centres.
Overview of the 2025 Kent & Medway Van Rules
Kent and Medway councils updated their rules to cut congestion and stop commercial vehicles misusing household waste centres. The changes mean only certain van types are allowed.
Why the rules changed for 2025
Kent County Council data shows that over 7% of HWRC visits in 2024 involved oversized or non-compliant vans. This caused queues, safety issues, and a rise in business waste being dumped illegally. The 2025 update tackles these problems directly.
Differences between Kent and Medway
- Medway: Small vans allowed only on certain days with advance booking.
- Kent: A voucher system and strict 2m height barrier at most sites.
- Both areas: No entry for large vans, Lutons, XLWB vans, tippers, or flatbeds.
Who the rules apply to
These rules affect:
- Householders clearing personal waste
- Hire van users
- DIY renovators
- Anyone transporting household (not commercial) waste
For a full breakdown of choosing the right hire vehicle, see our Van Hire Guide.
What Vans Are Allowed at Medway Recycling Centres in 2025
Medway’s recycling rules are among the strictest in Kent.
Allowed vehicles
- Cars
- Car-derived vans
- Short Wheel Base (SWB) vans, but only on specific days
Avoiding common rental mistakes helps ensure a smooth trip. Check out:
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Van in Kent
Van-only days
Medway only allows van access on:
- Wednesdays
- Saturdays
All van drivers must book online before arriving.
Vehicles not allowed in Medway
- LWB vans
- XLWB vans
- Luton vans
- Low loaders
- Tippers
- Flatbeds
- Any van over 2 metres
If you’re unsure why Lutons are banned, this comparison helps: Luton Van vs Standard Van
Why the 2m rule matters
Medway sites have tight turns, roof canopies, and narrow entrances, so any vehicle over 2m is refused immediately.
Real Examples From Medway Residents
Example 1, Successful garage clear-out
A Rochester customer hired a SWB van for a garage clear-out. At 1.96m, it cleared the height limit comfortably. With a Saturday booking and the right documents, the entire trip took under 40 minutes.
Example 2, Luton van turned away
A Strood resident attempted to visit Hoath Way with a Luton van. As expected, the van was too tall and classed as commercial. They returned, hired an SWB van instead, and entered with no issues.
Kent Recycling Centre Rules for Vans (Outside Medway)
Kent’s rules align closely with Medway, but with a few differences.
SWB vans allowed with vouchers
According to KCC, 82% of all van entries at Kent HWRCs are SWB vans. These require a free online voucher, which you must show on arrival.
The 2m height barrier
Most Kent sites have fixed 2m barriers that block:
- LWB vans
- XLWB vans
- Lutons
- Tippers
- Flatbeds
- High-roof vans
ID and documentation
For hire vans, you must bring:
- Proof of address
- Your hire agreement
- Your SWB van voucher
Not sure what documentation you can use? This guide explains it clearly: Can You Hire a Car with Points?
Cross-border charges
If you live outside Kent, certain sites (like Allington) charge a £10 fee per visit.
Medway vs Kent – Van Access Comparison
| Van Type | Medway Access | Kent Access | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car | ✓ Allowed | ✓ Allowed | No restrictions |
| Car-Derived Van | ✓ Allowed | ✓ Allowed | Ideal for small loads |
| SWB Van | ✓ Wed & Sat only (booking required) | ✓ Voucher required | Must be under 2m |
| LWB Van | ✗ Not allowed | ✗ Not allowed | Too large |
| XLWB Van | ✗ Not allowed | ✗ Not allowed | Always refused |
| Luton Van | ✗ Not allowed | ✗ Not allowed | Classed as commercial |
| Tipper / Flatbed | ✗ Not allowed | ✗ Not allowed | No business waste permitted |
What ID, Permits & Documents You’ll Need in 2025
Medway booking rules
For SWB vans:
- Book a slot online
- Choose Wednesday or Saturday
- Bring ID and proof of address
If you’re loading waste in tricky weather, this guide helps: How to Load a Van Safely
Kent voucher scheme
For Kent:
- Only SWB vans are eligible
- Apply online for free vouchers
- Bring the voucher and ID to the site
Documents required for all hire vans
- Driving licence
- Proof of address
- Hire agreement
If a car would be easier for your waste run, browse our Car Hire options.
Household vs commercial waste
Only household waste is allowed.
Trades waste is always refused.
Best Hire2You Vans for Kent & Medway Recycling Centres
You can learn more about us and how we operate here: About Hire2You
SWB vans, the ideal choice
Our SWB vans meet all council restrictions:
- Under the 2m limits
- Easy to drive
- Perfect for household clear-outs
Prices start from £49/day, with no deposit required.
Car-derived vans
A great option for:
- Light waste
- Small DIY jobs
- Quick local trips
Need help deciding between options? This guide compares alternatives:
Hire a Van vs Removal Company
Why larger vans are banned
LWB, XLWB and Luton vans are too tall, too long, and classed as commercial vehicles.
No-hassle same-day hire
Hire2You offers:
- Same-day collection
- No credit checks
- No deposit options
- Local Strood pickup
Quick Checklist Before You Go
- Is your van under 2 metres?
- Do you have your booking (Medway)?
- Do you have your voucher (Kent)?
- Do you have proof of address?
- Do you have your hire agreement?
- Are you bringing household waste only?
FAQs
Can I take a hire van to a recycling centre in Kent?
Yes, but SWB vans require vouchers and you must show your hire agreement.
What vans are allowed at Medway recycling centres?
Cars, car-derived vans and SWB vans (Wednesdays and Saturdays only).
Do I need a permit for a van at the tip?
Medway requires a booking. Kent requires a van voucher.
Why aren’t Luton vans allowed?
They exceed height limits and are classed as commercial vehicles.
What documents do I need for a van tip run?
Your ID, proof of address and hire agreement.
Conclusion & CTA
Understanding the Kent recycling centre rules for 2025 makes planning a tip run much easier. Once you know what vans you can use in Medway and Kent, it’s simple to choose the right Hire2You vehicle.
Browse more helpful guides on the Hire2You Blog.
Need a compliant van for your next tip run? Hire2You offers SWB vans from £49/day, with no deposit and same-day hire available. Book your van today.