Every winter, the same questions pop up: Is it illegal to take grit from a grit bin? Can the public use council grit bins? Do salt bins belong to the council or anyone who needs them? With temperatures dropping, it’s time to set the record straight on some classic winter safety myths.
Myth 1: “It’s Illegal to Take Grit From a Council Grit Bin”
Not exactly - but there are limits. Most grit bins in the UK are owned by local councils and stocked for public use on nearby roads and pavements. You’re allowed (and even encouraged) to use grit to keep your street, path, or junction safe during icy weather.
However, removing grit for private driveways or business use isn’t allowed. Council grit is paid for by taxpayers to improve public safety - not to de-ice your office car park or home steps. If you need grit for private areas, the best option is to have your own lockable grit bin and stock of road salt.
✅ Use grit from council bins on public roads and paths
❌ Don’t take grit home or use it on private property
✅ Report empty or damaged bins to your local council
Myth 2: “All Grit Bins Are the Same”
Not true! Council grit bins are placed at key points - like hills, junctions, and schools - and are designed for community use. Private grit bins, like the ones used by workplaces, schools, and business parks, are owned and managed by the site itself.
At G-Force, we supply a wide range of grit bins - from compact options for schools to large lockable grit bins for commercial or industrial sites. These ensure your salt stays dry, secure, and ready for when frost hits hard.
Pro Tip: Keep Your Grit Where You Need It
Public bins are great for community spaces, but if you manage your own site, it pays to invest in proper road salt storage. Our workplace grit bins are weather-resistant, stackable, and built for the long haul - so you’re not relying on the council’s schedule when ice strikes.
Myth 3: “Any Salt Will Work”
Here’s another misconception: table salt won’t do the trick. Rock salt (the kind used in salt bins UK) is coarser and designed to melt ice effectively on outdoor surfaces. It’s also cheaper, safer, and won’t damage your pathways like finer salts can.
If you’re storing large amounts, make sure it’s in a lockable grit bin with a tight lid. Moisture ruins road salt fast, turning it into a clumpy mess that’s impossible to spread evenly.
Quick Recap
- It’s not illegal to use council grit bins - just use them for public areas only.
- Private sites like schools and workplaces need their own grit bins.
- Always use genuine road salt and keep it stored in a weatherproof bin.
→ Keep your site compliant with the right winter-ready grit storage from G-Force
