Manhattan residents must source-separate metal/glass/plastic/cartons and paper/cardboard under NYC Local Law 19 of 1989; organics curbside collection is rolling out citywide.
Recycling in New York County (Manhattan) is mandatory under NYC Local Law 19 of 1989 and NYC Admin Code 16-305. Residents must separate: (1) metal, glass, plastic, and beverage cartons (clear bag or blue-labeled bin); (2) mixed paper and cardboard (clear bag or green-labeled bin); and (3) organic waste (brown bin). Organics curbside collection expanded citywide in 2024-2025, making food scraps and yard waste separation mandatory. Buildings must post recycling decals, provide containers, and train staff. DSNY inspectors issue violations for contaminated bins, failure to recycle, or missing signage — fines start at 25 dollars for first offenses and rise with repeat violations, with commercial properties facing higher schedules. Businesses follow separate commercial recycling rules administered by private carters.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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New York County, NY
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