NYC Local Law 40 and DSNY rules require Brooklyn residents to separate paper, metal/glass/plastic, and organics; non-compliance triggers $25-$100 fines.
Recycling is mandatory in Brooklyn under NYC Admin Code §16-305 and DSNY rules (34 RCNY §1-07). Residents must separate: (1) mixed paper and cardboard, (2) metal, glass, rigid plastic, and cartons, and (3) as of curbside composting launch in Brooklyn in October 2023 (mandatory April 2025 per Local Law 85), organics including food scraps, food-soiled paper, and yard waste. Recyclables must be set out in transparent bags or labeled bins. Contamination (non-recyclables mixed in) voids recycling and can trigger violations. Fines run $25 (residential) to $100+ (repeat), and higher for buildings of 10+ units. Commercial buildings have separate private carter requirements under Commercial Waste Zones rolling out 2024-2025. Certain items — batteries, textiles, fluorescent tubes — require special drop-off or pickup programs.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Kings County code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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