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As part of NYC Department of Sanitation’s commitment to keeping our streets clean, DSNY is implementing a new rule to send rats packing. Starting August 1, all food-related businesses in NYC must use rigid containers with secure lids when setting out trash for collection. Food businesses must comply with this new rule to fight rats!
All food-related Businesses
This rule impacts catering establishments, food manufacturers, food preparation establishments, food service establishments, food wholesalers, and retail food stores. Restaurants, grocery stores, delis, bodegas, caterers, or other businesses that sell or handle food must comply.
Refuse and organic material
Any putrescible material (refuse or organic material) set out on the curb for collection must be in a container with a secure lid. This requirement does not apply to other recyclables (metal, glass, plastic, or paper) or to businesses that have waste collected from a loading dock.
This rule does not require the separation of trash and organics, only the use of containers for collection. However, some businesses are required to separate their organic waste. If your business meets the minimum requirements, you must comply with the NYC Commercial Organics Rules. Are you covered by this law? Visit nyc.gov/commercialorganics
When to set out
Per recent setout rules, businesses that place waste on the curb have two options:
Store bins inside or outside
Containers should be stored inside or in a rear yard if possible. If space is not available, bins can be stored within three (3) feet of the building line when not set out for collection. Bins must be maintained in a neat and orderly manner and always allow for a clear path of pedestrian travel on the sidewalk.
Join an Info Session
Need more information to prepare your business? Join a virtual training session. Registration is required.
If you’re unable to make an info session, go to nyc.gov/usebins for more information.
Download the official commercial containerization notice: English/Spanish/Chinese
Read the Adopted Rule Relating to the Use of Certain Receptacles by Food-Related Businesses.
