Manhattan Curbside Composting Starts October 6, 2024

SoHo Broadway Partner: Department of Sanitation announces details and info sessions for mandatory curbside composting in our borough

Starting October 6, 2024, Curbside Composting will be available to ALL Manhattan residents! No sign-up needed. Compost will be picked up every week on your recycling day (Wednesdays in the SoHo Broadway district).

Order Order a Free Composting Bin for Your Building

Find out more about this program and join some info sessions, including sessions specifically for Building Managers: FREE INFO SESSIONS

How to Compost

Set out your leaf and yard waste, food scraps, and food-soiled paper at the curb inside a labeled bin with a secure lid or in your DSNY brown compost bin.

• Extra leaf and yard waste can be put in a paper lawn and leaf bag or clear plastic bag.
• Twigs and branches can be bundled with twine and placed next to bins and bags.

Bins must be 55 gallons or less with a secure lid. Line with a clear plastic, paper, or compostable bag to help keep it clean.

You can purchase additional DSNY brown bins or the official NYC Bin online. If using your own bin, order a free composting bin decal.

NOTE: Owners of buildings with 4+ units must provide a storage area and clearly labeled bins for the composting. Learn more about composting in larger buildings.

What to Compost

DSNY will pick up ALL leaf and yard waste, food scraps, and food-soiled paper. This includes meat, bones, dairy, prepared foods, and greasy uncoated paper plates and pizza boxes.

DO NOT compost trash such as diapers, personal hygiene products, animal waste, wrappers, non-paper packaging, and foam products.

By composting, you help keep your home and neighborhood clean and healthy. When you place your food scraps and food-soiled paper in your compost bin, you reduce the chance of bags breaking open on the curb, causing litter and attracting pests.

To help keep your compost bin clean:

• Keep the lid shut and tightly secured. Close the bin after every use.
• Use a clear plastic, paper, or compostable bag to line your bin.
• Drain liquids before placing material in the bin.
• Use paper or baking soda at the bottom of your bin to absorb excess moisture.
• Tie the bag closed before putting the bin on the curb for collection.

TIP: Put food scraps in your freezer before emptying them into your building’s compost bin.

DO NOT compost recyclable materials. Learn more about what to recycle.