The white discs present on some kerbside bins are RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags. These are not transmitting devices and have no power source. These tags only contain data on the serial number of the bin. They work when a bin is lifted and gets close to a receiver on the kerbside collection truck. The receiver can read this serial number, allowing the truck to identify if the bin being collected is located at the property the bin was assigned to. This can be used to ensure that ratepayers are getting the bin services that they are paying for in their rates. However, at the moment the RFID tags on CODC bins are inactive as we do not use the RFID tag functions.
RFID tags are present on those bins that have been delivered since the start of the new waste contract in July 2023, so are on all 140L red bins and new or replacement 240L yellow, blue, and green bins. Wheelie bin design has become more sophisticated so that as well as a number being stamped into the bin body, which can fade or get scraped off, it is also recorded in the RFID tag. RFID tags are now fitted as standard by the bin manufacturer and are to be found on bins all over the country.
The tags are part of the bin assigned to properties. Any intentional damage or defacement to bins or any part of them could result in a replacement bin charge of $55.