Starting today, New York City’s composting program enters a new phase with fines in place for those who fail to separate compostable waste from regular trash. Violators face fines ranging from $25 to $400, marking a shift from a voluntary initiative to a citywide mandate aimed at reducing landfill waste and lowering methane emissions.
The mandate requires New Yorkers to place compostable waste in designated brown bins or containers no larger than 55 gallons, with secure lids. The city’s goal is to create a more sustainable environment by diverting organic waste from landfills.
Challenges for Property Managers
Property managers and building owners are pushing back, citing the additional burden of enforcing the rules. They’ll now be responsible for inspecting trash to ensure compliance, which some argue is an unnecessary and time-consuming task. Another controversial rule is that trash must be placed curbside by 8:00 p.m., a late deadline many managers say adds undue strain.
What You Can—and Can’t—Compost
The city has outlined clear rules for composting, including:
Compostable Items:
- Vegetables, fruits, and prepared foods
- Meat, fish, bones, dairy products
- Baked goods, pasta, grains
- Paper plates, pizza boxes (greasy and uncoated)
- Yard waste, coffee filters, and tea bags
Non-Compostable Items:
- Diapers and personal hygiene products
- Animal waste
- Glass, metal, plastic, and styrofoam
Failure to adhere to these guidelines can result in fines, with enforcement now a top priority.
Who Gets Fined and How Much?
Fines are based on building size and violation frequency:
- 1-8 unit buildings: $25 for the first offense
- 9+ unit buildings: $100 for the first offense
- Repeat violations: Fines can reach up to $400
Property managers are directly responsible for ensuring compliance, and buildings with four or more units must designate a composting area.
A Long Road to Mandates
The composting program started as a pilot project in 2014, gradually expanding from a voluntary effort to today’s mandatory citywide mandate. While the program was officially in place as of October 2024, it’s only now that fines are being enforced.
The Bigger Picture
City officials stress the importance of the program in combating climate change. With a third of the city’s waste being compostable, the initiative offers a significant opportunity to reduce emissions and move toward a circular economy. The challenge now lies in whether New Yorkers will embrace the mandate or resist further enforcement.
For more information, visit the NYC Department of Sanitation’s website or visit or call 311.
