New York City has introduced updated policies for mandatory composting and residential garbage disposal to improve sanitation and combat rodent infestations. Residential property owners are responsible for making sure all waste for their building — including trash, recycling, and composting (food scraps and yard waste) — is set out correctly for pickup by the New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY).
New trash container rules in NYC
As of November 12, 2024, new rules now are in effect for residential trash. This rule mandates that trash be placed in secure bins with lids rather than left in bags on sidewalks.
Who is affected: All residential properties with 1 to 9 units, including single-family homes and small apartment buildings, are subject to the new requirements. Property owners and building managers must purchase NYC-approved bins for trash disposal. Building managers are responsible for providing a sufficient number of bins to accommodate the waste generated by all residents. Tenants are required to cooperate by disposing of their trash exclusively in the designated bins supplied by the landlord, in compliance with the new regulations.
New rules for trash disposal
- Trash must be placed in bins of 55 gallons or less with secure lids.
- Will become mandatory by June 2026.
- If a bin with a secure lid that is 55 gallons or less is already being used for trash set out, it may continue to be used until June 2026. After that, it will need to be replaced with the Official NYC Bin.
When new trash disposal rules go into effect
- A warning period is in effect until January 2, 2025.
- Starting January 3, 2025, fines will be imposed to property owners for non-compliance:
- $50 for the first offense
- $100 for the second offense
- $200 for subsequent offenses
Who is responsible for purchasing trash bins
The property owner must purchase the new trash bins. Property owners and building managers are responsible for ensuring that enough bins are available to accommodate all the trash generated by residents in their buildings.
Where to purchase official NYC trash bins
The official NYC Bins can be purchased online at www.bins.nyc or by calling 1-855-NYC-BINS. They are also available at every Home Depot in New York City.
NYC mandatory composting program
All NYC residents are now required to separate food scraps, food-soiled paper, and yard waste from regular trash.
Building owners are required to provide all necessary supplies for the composting program, including the purchase of containers and contracting any labor required to set them out. Building owners and property managers of properties with four or more units must ensure a designated storage area is equipped with clearly labeled compost bins.
Tenants are responsible for collecting compostable materials at home, which include food scraps (such as fruits, vegetables, meat, bones, dairy, and prepared food), food-soiled paper (such as napkins, paper towels, tea bags, plates, coffee filters, and pizza boxes), and yard waste (such as leaves, plants, twigs, and grass).
How to collect compost at home
Food scraps and food-soiled paper should be collected in any container that seals tightly. Specialized “compost containers” are recommended, while Tupperware, takeout containers, or plastic bags are also accepted. The container should be stored in a convenient place, such as on the countertop or in the freezer. The container can be lined with an acceptable compostable bag to make it easier and more compact. Certified compostable bags can be found at grocery and home improvement stores in your area. Bags can also be purchased through major online retailers. Alternatively, a brown paper bag or newspaper can be used as a liner if necessary.
Once gathered, compostable materials should be emptied (liner and all) into the building’s designated compost bin. The bin’s lid should be closed and latched securely afterward to prevent pests and maintain cleanliness. Learn more about composting in larger buildings.
When does mandatory composting go into effect
Mandatory separation of compostable materials is currently in a warning period, with fines for non-compliance starting in Spring 2025.
- Beginning spring 2025, fines for non-compliance will be enforced for houses and buildings with 1 to 8 units as follows:
- $25 for the first offense
- $50 for the second offense
- $100 for the third and subsequent offenses
Where to take compost in NYC
- Curbside composting: Compostable materials should be set out in a labeled bin with a secure lid or in a brown compost bin issued by the NYC Department of Sanitation. Extra yard waste can be placed in paper lawn and leaf bags or clear plastic bags. Compost is collected weekly on the designated recycling day.
- Drop-off sites: Alternatively, compostable materials can be brought to designated drop-off locations throughout the city.
Bin specifications:
- Size: Compost bins must be 55 gallons or less.
- Lid: Bins must have a secure lid to prevent pests.
- Labeling: The bin should be clearly labeled for compost. Free decals are available through DSNY.
The composting bin must be 55 gallons or less with a secure lid. While a specific NYC bin is not required for composting, the bin should be clearly labeled as a compost receptacle. The city provides free free decals to put on any bin.
To keep the bin clean, it is recommended that it be lined with a clear plastic, paper, or compostable bag. Black plastic bags should be avoided. Additionally, small plastic, paper, or compostable bags can be used inside the liner to collect daily food scraps.
Official DSNY-issued brown compost bin
Where to get a composting bin
Official DSNY-issued brown compost bins are no longer available for free request after October 28, 2024. However, they can still be purchased, though their use is not mandatory.
Additional resources:
- Educational materials and events: The Department of Sanitation offers educational materials and hosts info sessions to help residents understand residential waste containerization and curbside composting.
- Presentation request: Property owners and managers of buildings can request a presentation for their residents, to have DSNY staff attend their event and help educate people about recycling, Curbside Composting, and other DSNY programs.
- Reporting non-compliant landlords: Residents can report residential building owners who fail to provide tenants with a designated area for trash or recycling storage. However, complaints regarding owners mixing organics with trash are not being accepted at this time.
- Compost distribution: Finished compost is available for free to New Yorkers. Residents can sign up for compost pickup.
Also Read: No Hot Water or Heat in Your Apartment? That’s Illegal in NYC
