New York City Begins Enforcement of Mandatory Curbside Composting

By Anna Buell

New York City officials earlier this month began enforcing mandatory participation in the city-wide curbside composting program. While the separation of organic waste and the promotion of city-wide composting are critical to our transition toward becoming a more sustainable city, new rules and regulations can often feel overwhelming, confusing, and even frustrating. With this dichotomy in mind, NYLCV aims to empower citizens to fully participate in the NYC curbside organics collection program for the betterment of the city. To achieve this, we must begin by addressing the questions: “Why should I compost, and how do I get started?” 

Why Should I Participate? 

In addition to the desire to avoid fines and save money, New Yorkers should strive to incorporate the separation of organic waste into their daily routines for several compelling reasons. First, the mandated separation of food waste into sealed containers by the New York City government helps combat insect and animal infestations in and around homes. Uneaten leftovers are a prime buffet for critters and crawlers. Through the separation of yummy scraps from traditional landfill-bound garbage in a tightly sealed container, residents can prevent odors that attract unwanted visitors. 

Most importantly, composting is a straightforward and effective way to lead a more sustainable lifestyle. Organic waste, including yard waste, makes up approximately a third of our residential waste. When sent to landfills, organic waste decomposes to create methane gas, a powerful greenhouse gas more than 20 times more potent than carbon dioxide. By separating organic matter from your landfill-bound trash bags, you enable your food waste to decompose naturally in an aerobic environment, significantly reducing the amount of greenhouse gases produced during disposal. 

A 2023 study of California waste decomposition reported that “composting emissions were 38–84% lower than equivalent landfilling fluxes,” further evidence that participation in composting initiatives play a crucial role in the climate fight. What’s more, curbside composting contributes to the advancement of New York’s circular economy. Residents, nonprofits, and agencies can register to receive nutrient-rich finished compost produced through the city-wide organics collection to support community gardens, green spaces, and more!  

Properly engaging with the NYC curbside composting program not only benefits you and your neighbors, but also reduces overall city emissions for a greener future. 

What if I Don’t Participate? 

Inspectors will check regular garbage disposal bags for organic waste and issue fines to property owners starting at $25. The penalties for improper organic waste disposal are structured similarly to recycling fines, increasing based on the size of the building and the number of previous infractions. Although curbside collection of organic waste has been fully operational since the fall of 2024, data analysis by a Baruch College professor indicates that only about 5% of all organic waste in the five boroughs was composted from October to December. 

While the city government celebrates the expansion of curbside organic collection services, participation among residents remains low. Various barriers continue to hinder New Yorkers from composting their food waste, including a lack of adequate bins provided by landlords and insufficient time or motivation to separate garbage. The enforcement of fines for non-compliance aims to encourage New Yorkers to overcome these obstacles and support the Department of Sanitation’s zero-waste plan, developed in accordance with Local Law 87. 

How Do I Participate? 

Thanks to years of planning, development, and dedication from the New York City government, curbside composting has never been easier. The Department of Sanitation collects organic waste on your designated recycling day. Simply place compostable materials in any bin with a capacity of 55 gallons or less and a tight lid. You do not need to purchase a fancy brown bin from the city to participate; even a large peanut butter jar will do. 

If you would like, you may line your bins with clear plastic bags or store your compost in your freezer to minimize leaking and odors. A variety of items can be disposed of with your organic waste, including yard waste and certain paper products like pizza boxes and uncoated plates. If you are ever unsure whether something can be composted, here’s a simple rule of thumb: if it grows, then it goes. 

If your landlord or building owner has not yet provided you with an organics disposal bin, New Yorkers can call 311 to report buildings and encourage compliance. Additionally, if you believe your building needs further assistance in adhering to the organics mandate, you can schedule a visit from Sanitation Department officials, who will lead information sessions about the new law. No one wants to pay a fine, so play your part in building a sustainable New York by separating your organics starting today.

Anna Buell, an undergraduate intern at the New York League of Conservation Voters since January 2025, is a third-year student at New York University pursuing a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies.