1. How is DSW funded?
DSW obtains funding from 2 sources:
- Percentage of rates raised on all rateable properties in the municipal area. Funds obtained from this source cover the cost of removal of domestic refuse, street cleaning and the operation of the various garden refuse and transfer station sites, and
- Charges raised by means of promulgated tariffs. Tariffs are raised for the removal of all non-domestic refuse. Businesses have the option of either using the services of DSW or, in the case of trade waste using the services of a registered waste contractor and, in addition, in the case of industrial waste making use of their own transport.
2. Why does DSW start work so early in the morning?
It is beneficial from both an efficiency point of view to get an early start before the morning peak traffic starts to build up, and to enable most of the work to be completed before the hot Durban summer peak at about 2pm . Most of the collection teams work on a set daily task basis which, when completed, allow them to go home.
3. How often is domestic refuse collected?
Weekly, except for some blocks of flats, townhouses, etc. where, due to restricted holding areas, more frequent collections have been arranged.
4. On what day of the week is my refuse collected?
This information can be obtained from your nearest DSW depot. If you are unsure of the nearest depot the information can be obtained by phoning the DSW Customer Service Line at 031 311 8804
5. Does DSW collect refuse on public holidays?
Yes, normal collection takes place Monday to Friday, even on public holidays such as Christmas Day.
6. How many black plastic bags are distributed for domestic refuse?
Black plastic bags (or bin-liners to use the correct term) are distributed on a one-for-one replacement basis with a maximum of 2 per week per dwelling.
7. What happens if more than 2 black plastic bags of domestic refuse are put out?
All domestic refuse is collected, whether placed in the DSW black plastic bags or in plastic refuse bags purchased separately. See also question below.
8. Why wasn't a black plastic bag filled with garden refuse collected with my refuse?
Because black plastic bags are only to be used for domestic refuse and not garden refuse. Ratepayers can purchase specially marked blue bags for garden refuse either on contract (see Blue Garden Bag Order Form) or from one of the many retail outlets.
9. Does DSW supply green wheeled plastic bins?
Yes. These can be hired for both domestic and business purposes at a nominal monthly hire cost. Details of the bins can be obtained by clicking here. To order, phone the DSW Customer Service Line at 031 311 8804
10. In Durban's summer heat surely once a week collection is insufficient?
No, once a week is sufficient. From a purely health point of view it has been established that domestic refuse need only be collected every 2 weeks.
11. What about the maggots and flies from the refuse?
It is essential to keep the black plastic bags (liners) in the refuse bin (receptacle) until just prior to collection. The refuse bins should be kept in the shade on a hardened base in order to break the cycle of the green fly.
12. How can I dispose of Builder's Rubble from my house?
A 5,5 cubic metre steel skip can be delivered to the premises which will allow the builder's rubble to be loaded into the skip by the builder. To order, phone the DSW Customer Service Line at 031 311 8804
13. How often can I expect my street to be swept?
DSW has developed a system of visual measurement to determine whether a street needs sweeping. See Streets Ahead. Certain 'black spot' areas, such as streets around shopping malls and streets in the CBD and beachfront are cleaned on a daily or weekly basis.
14. How can we obtain 'No Dumping' signs?
By phoning your nearest DSW Depot. An Area Cleansing Officer will inspect the site to confirm that the signs are required and, if applicable, the appropriate number and positions.
15. What action can I take if I see someone illegally dumping from a vehicle?
Contact your nearest DSW Depot and report the matter. Click on find us to see your nearest depot.
16. What are the different coloured refuse bags used for?
- Black refuse Bags: Supplied every three months to residents for domestic waste. For non -delivery contact helpline on (031) 311 8804
- Orange/Clear bags: for Recycling purposes. Households who are in the Kerbside recycling project are supplied with one pack of 15 Orange/Clear bags, strictly for recyclables. Waste types accepted in the recycling bags are newspapers, magazines, cereal cartons, cardboard, plastics, plastic bottles and tetra pack material. Collection is on the same day as domestic refuse.
- Blue bags: For Garden refuse. Call (031) 3118804 for a contract to access this service. . Collection is on the same day as black domestic refuse bags.
17. How does one order a wheelie bin?
Clients can contact DSW helpline if they require wheelie bins. A Waste Consultant will visit the customer to determine the customer needs and preferences. A quotation will then be provided and DSW will collect refuse on specified days as requested by the client
18. How does one order a skip?
Clients can contact DSW helpline if they require a skip. A Waste Consultant will visit the customer to determine the customer needs and preferences. A quotation will then be provided, and the Unit will collect refuse as requested by the client.
