How Yonkers Handles Trash & Recycling: A Practical Guide

Yonkers maintains 114 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 of those deal specifically with trash & recycling. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Yonkers falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Pickup Rules & Schedules

Yonkers DPW collects residential trash weekly by zone and recycling on alternating weeks. Bags must be sealed; loose trash is not collected. Holiday schedule posted on the DPW website.

Key details: Trash: Weekly by zone. Recycling: Biweekly. Weight Limit: 50 lbs per container. Holidays: Schedule shifts +1 day. Yard Waste: Seasonal pickup.

Recycling Requirements

Recycling is mandatory in Yonkers under NYS General Municipal Law §120-aa. Residents must separate paper, cardboard, metal, glass, and #1-2 plastics. Mixing recyclables into trash is a violation.

Key details: State Law: NYS GML §120-aa. E-Waste Ban: ECL §27-2611. Streams: Bottles/cans + paper. Not Accepted: Bags, Styrofoam. Fine: $25-$100.

Recyclables in trash: warning first, then $25-$100 fines. E-waste in trash: NYS penalty up to $100.

Compared to other cities, Yonkers takes a harder line on recycling requirements. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Bin Placement Rules

Yonkers DPW requires trash and recycling carts to be placed at the curb no earlier than 6:00 PM the night before pickup and removed by 8:00 PM on collection day. Bins must be stored out of view from the street.

Key details: Set-Out: After 6 PM prior night. Removal: By 8 PM collection day. Storage: Out of street view. Fine: $50-$100.

Bins left out: warning first, then $50-$100 fine per occurrence.

Bulk Item Disposal

Yonkers DPW offers scheduled bulk pickup for residential items (furniture, appliances, mattresses). Residents must call DPW to schedule. White goods with refrigerant require tag certifying refrigerant removal.

Key details: Schedule: Call DPW. Limit: 3-5 items typical. White Goods: Freon tag required. Not Accepted: Construction, hazmat, tires.

The Bottom Line

Yonkers's trash & recycling rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Yonkers is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Yonkers can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.