New York, NY Trash & Recycling: Recycling Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum materials designated
- At least 6 recyclable categories
- Collection frequency
- Weekly curbside citywide
- 9+ unit buildings
- Must provide storage area, bins
- First penalty (small bldg)
- $25, may be waived
- Enforcing agency
- NYC Department of Sanitation
Summary
New York City requires households to source-separate designated recyclable materials from trash under Sanitation Department rules, with weekly curbside collection and real civil penalties for mixing them into regular refuse.
The commissioner shall adopt and implement rules designating at least six recyclable materials, including plastics to the extent required in subdivision c of this section and yard waste to the extent required in section 16-308 of this chapter and organic waste to the extent required in section 16-308.1 of this chapter, contained in department-managed solid waste and requiring households to source separate such designated materials.
Full Breakdown
The Sanitation Department must designate at least six recyclable materials, including plastics, yard waste and organic waste, and require households to source-separate them from other solid waste before collection. Weekly collection of designated recyclables is maintained citywide. Buildings with nine or more dwelling units must provide a designated storage area and containers, post source-separation instructions, and strip non-designated material from recycling bins before they go to the curb. Buildings of four to eight units must provide a storage area where practicable and post instructions. Violations bring escalating civil penalties, and buildings with repeated violations face random inspections and mandatory recycling training.
Violations & Fines
Civil penalties run $25/$50/$100 for the first, second and third-plus violation at buildings under nine units, and $100/$200/$400 at buildings of nine or more units and at commercial buildings. Persistent violators can be cited per bag or container, up to 20 violations in 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to separate recycling in NYC?
What happens if my building doesn't recycle correctly?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in New York
New York rules heatmap·Compare New York to another location·View the New York trash & recycling overview
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