Something big is coming to the curb—and it might hit your wallet if you’re not paying attention.

Starting soon, a long-planned citywide change is set to take effect, and most residents still aren’t prepared.

If you’ve been tossing out certain items without a second thought, it might be time to take a closer look.

The composting law you can’t ignore​

Starting April 1, a new composting mandate will begin enforcement—and if you’re not ready, it could cost you up to $300.

If you're not separating your organic waste—like food scraps and yard debris—you could be facing fines before you even realize what went wrong.


Under New York City’s new rules, organic waste must be separated from regular trash. That includes leftover food, flowers, even greasy pizza boxes.

Every household is expected to use the city-provided brown composting bins, similar to recycling containers.

But despite the rollout last fall, compliance is still dangerously low. Recent city data shows that less than 5% of residents are following the new rules—and time is running out.

Here’s what happens if you don’t comply​

Fines will vary depending on your building size:

• Small buildings could face $25 for a first offense, then $100 for repeat violations.
• Larger buildings will see fines starting at $100 and going up to $300 per violation.

In some neighborhoods, the response has been dismal.

In Canarsie, only 3 out of 20 homes put out their compost bins on a recent collection day.

And in the South Bronx, just 2 tons of compost were collected—compared to over 1,300 tons of garbage.

Why composting matters more than ever​

It’s not just about fines. When organic waste ends up in landfills, it produces methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.

Composting helps reduce emissions and creates nutrient-rich soil—good for gardens, parks, and the planet.

What you can—and can’t—compost​

Compost these items:

• Food scraps (meat, dairy, bones, shells, cooked foods)
• Leaf and yard waste (flowers, Christmas trees)
• Greasy, uncoated paper plates, pizza boxes
• Labeled compostable products

Do not compost:

• Plastic, glass, metal, or clean paper
• Pet waste, diapers, wrappers, or hygiene products
• Foam containers, medical waste

How to stay compliant and fine-free​

• Use a DSNY brown bin or a personal bin (55 gallons or less) with a secure lid
• Line it with a clear plastic, compostable, or paper bag
• For yard waste, use paper lawn bags or clear plastic bags
• Bundle twigs and branches with twine
• Order a free bin decal if using your own container: www.bins.nyc

Landlords of buildings with 4+ units must provide a labeled composting area for tenants.

The city is cracking down—here’s what to expect​

The sanitation department is going all in:

• More than a million flyers are being distributed
• Inspectors will begin issuing real fines starting April 1
• Landlords have already received over 20,000 warning letters

Officials say they’ve made participation easy—and now it’s up to residents to follow through.

"Now it's up to New Yorkers to follow the law or face the summons," said Acting Sanitation Commissioner Javier Lojan.
Are you ready for the composting mandate? Have you started separating waste—or still waiting for your brown bin? Share your tips, frustrations, or questions with the GrayVine community below. Let’s help each other stay on top of the rules—and out of the fine zone.

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