Irondequoit, NY Landscaping Rules: Composting (2026)

Section 192-19(B) of the Code of the Town of Irondequoit protects a private property owner's right to make and keep a compost heap for normal gardening purposes, and to mulch an area according to customary gardening practices, but it attaches four conditions. First, the heap must be contained in a post and fencing or pallet or manufactured composting container, so an open pile on the ground does not qualify. Second, the materials composted are limited to fruits, vegetables, coffee grounds and yard waste for composting, as the article defines that term. Third, composting containers must sit no fewer than three feet from side or rear yard property lines. Fourth, the owner must make reasonable efforts to maintain an attractive appearance and keep odors to a minimum.

The definitions in § 192-5 fill in what belongs in the bin. COMPOSTING is the converting of yard waste into usable organic materials through controlled decomposition within a containment structure. YARD WASTE FOR COMPOSTING includes fallen leaves, grass and hedge clippings, weeds, the remains of garden plants and materials which result from normal care of residential lawns, shrubs and gardens.

Who decides whether a heap complies? Section 192-19(C) puts the determination of violations in the sole discretion of the Director of Development Services or his or her designee, or as designated by the Town Board. The compost language carries amendment dates of 9-26-2000 and 7-27-2010 (L.L. No. 1-2010) in the code history.

Composting is carved out of the general storage rule. Section 192-19(A) otherwise bars accumulating refuse on a premises except for collection, which shall normally occur at intervals not less frequent than once every seven days, and § 192-23(C) says grass clippings are not collected by the Town or by refuse collectors as part of regular service, so a compliant bin is the on-site route for clippings.