New York, NY Trash & Recycling: Bulk Item Disposal (2026)

NYC DSNY collects most bulk items curbside as part of regular trash collection at no extra charge — a unique benefit compared to many cities. Acceptable bulk items include furniture, mattresses, carpeting, and non-electronic appliances. Items should be placed at the curb following the standard set-out rules (no earlier than 8 PM night before collection). For items that DSNY will not collect curbside — including refrigerators and air conditioners with CFCs that have not been properly removed, construction debris, and hazardous materials — residents must make special arrangements. CFC-containing appliances require a certified technician to remove refrigerants before DSNY will collect them. NYC mandates mattress encasement (Local Law 104 of 2005) when discarding mattresses to prevent bedbug spread. Electronics (TVs, computers, monitors) cannot be placed with regular trash under the NYS Electronic Equipment Recycling and Reuse Act — DSNY offers free e-waste drop-off events and scheduled pickups. DSNY also operates special waste drop-off sites (SAFE Disposal events) for chemicals, batteries, and paint.