Amendments to legislation designed to accelerate the rollout of reverse vending machines (RVMs) for the UK’s Deposit Return Scheme are set to come into force on 9 April 2026, subject to parliamentary process.
Under the new Class CA provisions, RVMs can be installed within the curtilage of a shop, including both internal spaces and the immediate external vicinity of the premises, as well as canopies or enclosures required for the operation of the machines.
While the new rules remove the need for planning permission in many cases, they impose strict conditions on the size, placement and location of RVMs. The footprint is capped at 80 square metres, with a maximum height of four metres, while machines installed into shop walls must not protrude more than two metres.
“We welcome the decision to allow retailers to install reverse vending machines without requiring full planning permission," said Travis Way, Managing Director at EcoVend, RVM manufacturers – a brand by international circular economy specialists Reconomy. "This is a positive step forward, making the journey toward preparing for the UK Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) more straightforward and accessible."
“This approach particularly supports smaller retailers by reducing the administrative burden associated with installation. That said, it remains essential that retailers have clear guidance on the steps needed to be fully prepared for the UK DRS, which comes into effect in October 2027.”