Paterson, NJ Trash & Recycling: Pickup Rules & Schedules (2026)
Key Facts
- Vehicles
- Must be covered and leakproof
- Spills
- Cleaned up immediately, no exceptions
- Disposal
- Same day, same truck, no transfers
- Oversight
- Sanitation Division supervises collectors
Summary
Paterson requires its trash collectors to use covered, leakproof trucks, avoid spilling material in the street, and haul each load to disposal the same day it's picked up.
Every collector shall collect and transport all ashes, refuse and garbage by such means and in such manner so that none of such material, solid or liquid, shall escape and drop upon the ground and that all reasonably avoidable noise incident to the collection and transportation of such material shall be prevented. ... All vehicles used for said collection must be maintained in good working order and in a clean and sanitary condition. Said vehicles must be liquidproof and completely covered with a heavy covering during transportation.
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
Under §427-9, every collector working in Paterson has to gather and haul ashes, refuse and garbage so none of it escapes or drops on the ground, and has to keep noise to a reasonable minimum during the run. Collection vehicles must be liquidproof, fully covered, and kept clean and in good working order. If anything spills while loading or hauling, the collector must clean it up immediately: leaving it is itself a violation. Everything collected has to reach the dump the same day, in the same truck that picked it up; nothing gets transferred between trucks within city limits, and the Sanitation Division supervises collectors to keep the operation compliant.
Violations & Fines
Failing to clean up spilled material immediately is itself a violation; general noncompliance with this article can draw a fine up to $2,000, 90 days jail, or community service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Paterson's trash trucks be uncovered?
What if a collector spills trash on the street?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Paterson
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