Since April 2025, curbside composting has been the law across all five boroughs. Every week, the Department of Sanitation (DSNY) collects food scraps, yard clippings, and other compostable materials straight from your brown bin on recycling day.
But it doesn’t end at the curb. DSNY turns all that organic waste into rich, high-quality compost, and now, they’re giving it back to the community for free.
With two new giveaway locations in Queens added this year, it’s easier than ever for New Yorkers to get their hands on this locally made “black gold” with DSNY’s Compost Giveback program.
Also Read: Learn The New Rules For Garbage Disposal and Trash Pickup in NYC
Who can get free compost?
This program is open to NYC residents only. That means individuals, not businesses or commercial operations. When you show up to pick up compost, you’ll need to have a photo ID with your NYC home address on it. Only one registration is allowed per household for each pickup.
Where and when to pick up the free compost?
There are two types of pick-up options: regular seasonal “giveback” sites and pop-up events.
The seasonal giveback locations are open from April or May through September and are set up across NYC.
Staten Island
450 West Service Road
Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m.
Saturdays from 9 to 11 a.m.
Brooklyn
459 North Henry Street
Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m.
Saturdays from 9 to 11 a.m.
Queens
235-69 Hillside Avenue
Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Queens
77-28 19th Avenue
Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
These givebacks require you to register online ahead of time, and registration opens about two weeks before the date you want to go. If you snag a spot, you’re allowed to pick up up to 10 bags of compost, with each bag weighing around 40 pounds.
Then there are the pop-up community events, which are smaller, more local, and more casual. These events take place in public parks and plazas throughout the summer. You still need to register in advance (following the same two-week rule), and the limit is typically two bags per household. It’s a great way to get your hands on a bit of compost without a big commitment.
How to register?
To sign up, simply visit nyc.gov/GetCompost. Once registration opens for your preferred site and date, you’ll be able to select a time slot and complete your registration information. You’ll receive a confirmation email. Don’t forget to bring that confirmation and a valid photo ID when picking up your compost — no ID, no compost.
What to expect at the pickup site?
On the day of your appointment, arrive at the site during your assigned time window. Once you’re there, show your confirmation and your ID. At the larger, seasonal giveback sites, you can walk away with as many as 10 bags of compost. At the pop-up events, it’s typically two bags per person, and they do go really quickly, so showing up early is a good idea.
Is the compost high quality?
Yes. DSNY’s compost is professionally processed at its Staten Island facility. It’s made from organic waste gathered citywide and goes through a careful process of shredding, composting, and screening. It’s even certified by the US Composting Council, ensuring it meets strict quality standards. You can safely use it for vegetables, flowers, houseplants, shrubs, and trees — just follow the application directions on the bag.
New York City’s compost program doesn’t just help reduce waste — it gives back to residents in a tangible, green way. Whether you’re an urban gardener or just nurturing a single plant, the Compost Giveback program is a free and easy way to improve your soil and support a more sustainable city.
Green thumb burning a hole in your pocket? Check out this New York City Department of Parks & Recreation map to find a community garden near you.
