Heavy Fines Begin Tuesday for Not Composting in New York City: What You Need to Know

April 01, 2025   163

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Overview of NYC’s Mandatory Composting Law

All NYC residents must now separate organic waste—like food scraps and soiled paper—from regular trash. This is part of the city’s effort to reduce landfill use and cut emissions.

Why Composting Fines Are Being Enforced Now

NYC generates over 3 million tons of waste per year. By composting, the city aims to decrease landfill waste, reduce greenhouse gases, and limit food sources for pests.

Timeline: When Do Composting Fines Start?

Fines officially begin on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. DSNY will begin issuing penalties to non-compliant buildings that week.

Who Is Affected by NYC Composting Rules?

The law applies to:

• Single-family homes
• Multi-family residences
• Apartment buildings, co-ops, condos
• Landlords, property managers, tenants

What Items Must Be Composted Under the New Law?

🍎 Food Scraps and Kitchen Waste

• Fruit and vegetable peels
• Bread, pasta, grains
• Meat, bones, dairy
• Leftovers, expired packaged food (remove packaging first)
• Eggshells, coffee grounds, and tea bags (without staples)
• Cooked food scraps and takeout leftovers (if not plastic-wrapped)

🌿 Yard Waste and Leaf Disposal

• Leaves, twigs, branches
• Grass clippings, plant trimmings
• Holiday wreaths and pine cones (natural only, no plastic or glitter)
• Dead houseplants, potting soil, weeds (no synthetic fertilizer)
• Bagged autumn leaves in paper lawn bags or labeled bins

📦 Soiled Paper and Cardboard Products

• Used napkins and paper towels
• Pizza boxes, greasy paper plates

Penalty Breakdown: How Much Will Fines Cost?

🏠 Residential Buildings (1–8 Units)

• 1st Offense: $25
• 2nd Offense: $50
• 3rd+ Offense: $100

🏢 Larger Buildings (9+ Units)

• 1st Offense: $100
• 2nd Offense: $200
• 3rd+ Offense: $300

 How to Comply with the Composting Mandate

🗑️ Approved Compost Bins and Liners

• Use DSNY-approved bins with secure lids
• Use compostable liners, paper bags, or no liner at all

Set-Out Times and Collection Schedules

• Set out after 6 PM the night before collection
• Collection is on the same day as recycling

Building Owners and Management Responsibilities

• Provide and maintain bins for tenants
• Ensure bins are labeled and in accessible areas
• Educate residents and monitor compliance

Enforcement: How NYC Will Catch Non-Compliant Households

• Random inspections by DSNY agents
• Monitoring bin contents and proper labeling
• Reports through NYC 311

How to Report Violations or Get Assistance

• Call 311 or use the NYC 311 app
• Visit nyc.gov/organics

How Composting Helps NYC Fight the Rodent Problem

By keeping food waste out of regular trash, composting helps starve rats and other pests, reducing infestations across the city.

Environmental Benefits of Mandatory Composting

• Reduces methane emissions from landfills
• Creates nutrient-rich compost for green spaces
• Supports renewable energy via anaerobic digestion

Educational Resources and Outreach Programs

• NYC Organics Official Page
• Download NYC Compost Checklist (PDF)
• Free workshops and multilingual support from DSNY

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Composting in NYC

• Throwing compost in black trash bags
• Using bins without lids
• Missing set-out times
• Placing plastics or glass in the compost bin

Final Checklist: Is Your Household Compost-Ready?

• [ ] I have a DSNY-approved compost bin
• [ ] I separate food, yard, and paper waste properly
• [ ] I set out the bin at the correct time
• [ ] I educate other household members

 FAQs About Composting Fines in NYC

• Do I have to compost if I live in a small building? Yes, all residential properties must comply.
• Can I get fined if a neighbor messes up the bin? Property owners are responsible for ensuring proper use.
• What if my building doesn’t provide a bin? Call 311 or notify your landlord to request one from DSNY.

 Conclusion: Composting Is No Longer Optional

Composting is now a legal responsibility for NYC residents. By sorting properly, using the right bins, and educating others, you can avoid fines and help build a cleaner, greener city.

📽️ Watch: How to Set Out Your Compost Bin