Paterson, NJ Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Weight limit
- 70 lbs, container plus contents
- Business cap
- 20 receptacles per collection day
- Bulky items
- Bundled, under 3 feet per side
- Condemned cans
- Must be replaced, not reused
Summary
Paterson caps rigid trash containers at 70 pounds combined weight, requires tight-fitting lids, and limits businesses to 20 curbside receptacles on any collection day.
The combined weight from any rigid refuse container and its contents shall not exceed 70 pounds. Liquid wastes shall not be placed in containers of any kind. ... No restaurant, hotel, storekeeper, shopkeeper, market or other place of business served by the City shall allow, permit or suffer the placement of more than 20 receptacles or other containers utilized for the disposal of garbage and refuse to be placed near the curbline ... on any day when garbage and refuse is scheduled for removal by the City or its subcontractors.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4713536; v19 updated 2025-12-16; through 12-16-2025).
Full Breakdown
Section 427-6 sets the physical standards for trash containers citywide: rigid receptacles have to be sized so contents empty out easily, and the combined weight of a rigid container and its contents can't top 70 pounds. Liquid waste can't go in any container, garbage has to be bagged and sealed before it goes in a covered can, and containers the Department of Public Works tags as condemned have to be replaced, using one after it's tagged means the collector leaves it behind. Bulky loads beyond a can's capacity must be bundled, tied, and kept under three feet in any dimension. Businesses face an added cap: no more than 20 receptacles placed near the curb on a single collection day.
Violations & Fines
General violations of the Solid Waste article, noncompliant containers included, carry a fine up to $2,000, 90 days imprisonment, or community service, with each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a weight limit on Paterson trash cans?
Can a Paterson business set out unlimited trash cans?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Paterson
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