In an effort to curb the “all-you-can-eat rat buffet” and as part of the Adams administration’s commitment to clean up NYC streets, new trash rules were proposed back in October 2022 which pushed back the time NYC residents’ trash could be put out on sidewalks to 8pm. And by July 2023, the city finalized an additional rule that mandates all food-related businesses to put their trash in secured containers.
But containerizing trash soon won’t just be a rule for food-related businesses.
Beginning March 1, 2024, all businesses in NYC must use bins with secure lids when setting out trash for collection, regardless of what the business sells.
The NYC Department of Sanitation (DSNY) writes:
This rule applies to any business in New York City, regardless of what is sold. Any perishable material (trash or organic material) must be in a bin with a secure lid when set out on the curb for collection. This requirement does not apply to recyclables (metal, glass, plastic or paper) or to businesses that have waste collected from a loading dock.
The rule says businesses can either place their trash outside an hour before closing or after 8pm.
And, when trash containers aren’t in use, DSNY says businesses should store them inside or in a rear yard if possible to allow for a clear path on the sidewalk for pedestrians. If space isn’t available, bins can be stored within three feet of the building line.
Containerized waste bins were first introduced as part of NYC’s “Clean Curbs” pilot program, which aims to keep trash bags off the streets. Trash accumulation has remained a common concern for New Yorkers, and the Clean Curbs program is intended to manage those concerns and address the city’s waste.
And if you think the rules don’t apply to you, think again–DSNY absolutely loves making an example out of NYC businesses who don’t follow trash containerization rules.
More info on NYC’s new trash containerization rules can be found here.