Starting January 2, 2025, enforcement begins for the new NYC rule requiring residential properties with 1–9 units to use bins (55 gallons or less) with secure lids for setting out trash. This regulation also applies to special-use buildings receiving NYC Department of Sanitation collection, such as NYC agencies, houses of worship, and nonprofits. Businesses that set out waste on the curb are already required to use bins with tight-fitting lids
Current Transition Period
Through December 31, 2024, a warning period has been in effect. This provided property owners and residents time to comply with the new rules before enforcement begins. The warning period for these regulations will end on January 2, 2025. After this date, non-compliance with the requirement to use bins no larger than 55 gallons with secure lids for trash set out will result in fines. The penalties are $50 for a first offense, $100 for a second offense, and $200 for third and subsequent offenses.
DSNY is hosting virtual information sessions about the new containerization rules, with upcoming dates on January 9 and 23, continuing through April 24. Consult the full schedule and sign up here.
Requirements for Trash and Compost
- Trash: Must be placed in bins (55 gallons or less) with secure lids.
- Recycling: May continue to be set out in clear bags or in bins.
- Compost: All food waste and food-soiled paper must be in labeled bins with secure lids. Leaf and yard waste can still be placed in clear bags. Citywide curbside composting is now mandatory.
Official NYC Bins: Required by June 2026
While existing bins that meet size and lid requirements are acceptable for now, starting June 2026, only official NYC Bins will be permitted. These bins are designed to be rat-resistant, easy to use for sanitation workers, and compatible with the mechanized collection trucks that will be rolled out citywide. They are available in multiple sizes to suit different types of buildings and cost no more than $50 for the most common size. Official NYC Bins can be purchased online at www.bins.nyc, by calling 1-855-NYC-BINS, or at select Home Depot stores in NYC (pick-up only). Read frequently asked questions about NYC Bins.
Upgraded Sanitation Services
To support compliance, DSNY is retrofitting collection trucks with mechanical tipping arms designed for NYC Bins. These upgrades will speed up collection and minimize spills, improving efficiency across the city.
Get Informed and Stay Compliant
To learn more about these changes, including bin requirements and enforcement, join an online info session. Visit the DSNY website for more information on containerization and www.bins.nyc for details on NYC Bins.
For questions about waste containerization, Sanitation services and holiday schedules contact 311 or visit nyc.gov/sanitation.
Make sure to comply before enforcement begins to avoid fines and contribute to cleaner, more efficient waste management in NYC.
