What are the rules for trash and recycling set-out in New York City?
The Department of Sanitation sets specific days and time windows for putting trash and recycling out on the curb, which vary by address and building type. Recycling in the city is separated into categories, generally paper and cardboard in one stream and metal, glass and plastic in another.
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How it works
A resident or building manager checks their specific collection schedule through the sanitation department's lookup tool, since days differ by neighborhood and can change. Material must generally be placed out no earlier than a set time the evening before collection and brought back in by a set time after collection to avoid violations.
Commonly mixed up with
Collection days are sometimes assumed to be the same across the city. Schedules differ by address, and putting material out at the wrong time can result in a fine.
What are the rules for trash and recycling set-out in New York City?
| Knowledge, New York | Big city topics |
|---|---|
| Short answer | The Department of Sanitation sets specific days and time windows for putting trash and recycling out on the curb, which vary by address and building type. Recycling in the city is separated into categories, generally paper and cardboard in one stream and metal, glass and plastic in another. |
| How it works | A resident or building manager checks their specific collection schedule through the sanitation department's lookup tool, since days differ by neighborhood and can change. Material must generally be placed out no earlier than a set time the evening before collection and brought back in by a set time after collection to avoid violations. |
| Commonly mixed up with | Collection days are sometimes assumed to be the same across the city. Schedules differ by address, and putting material out at the wrong time can result in a fine. |
| Last reviewed | 2026-08-08 |
Short questions
- How do I find my collection day?
- The Department of Sanitation provides an address lookup tool for collection schedules.
- How is recycling separated?
- NYC recycling is generally split into paper and cardboard, and metal, glass and plastic.
- When can trash be put out?
- Materials generally cannot be set out before a specified evening time before collection.
- Can set-out timing result in a fine?
- Yes, putting material out too early or leaving bins out too long can result in a violation.
- Where are current rules published?
- DSNY publishes current collection schedules and set-out rules.
Sources
More in this track
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