Composting is the process of turning food scraps into usable fertilizer, reducing environmental pollution and lowering methane emissions. Composting in New York Curbside composting programs are becoming more and more popular.
Are you wondering what you can and can't put in your brown compost bin, or if you need special compost bags, then you've come to the right place. This guide will help you understand all the important composting rules in New York City.
Importance of Composting in New York City
In New York City, there is a lot of food waste. If it is sent to landfills, it will produce more harmful gas methane. The soil after the garbage is composted is more suitable for growing in Commercial gardeners and businesses that need compost can buy it in bulk.
That is why the New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) launched the New York City Curbside Composting Project. Residents are provided with brown trash cans to collect food waste and other compostable items. To ensure that the composting system operates effectively, everyone needs to follow some basic rules.
Who Makes the Composting Rules?
The NYC Department of Sanitation (DSNY) is in charge of the composting rules. They also handle the brown bins and collect the food waste from your home.
Their goal is to help NYC become a Zero Waste city, where as little trash as possible ends up in landfills. That’s why they tell us what we can compost — and what we can’t.
Following the rules keeps the compost clean and safe to use.
What You CAN Put in the NYC Brown Compost Bin
Food Scraps
- Fruit and vegetable peels
- Bread, pasta, and rice
- Meat, bones, and fish
- Dairy products (like cheese and yogurt)
- Eggshells and coffee grounds
- Tea bags (without plastic)
It’s okay if the food is spoiled or moldy — it still goes in the compost.
Food-Soiled Paper
If paper has touched food, it can’t go in regular recycling — but it can go in the compost:
- Used napkins
- Paper towels
- Paper plates (without plastic coating)
- Greasy pizza boxes (torn into pieces)
- Paper takeout containers (if not lined with plastic)
Yard Waste and Plants
- Leaves
- Grass clippings
- Small branches
- Flowers
- Houseplants and soil (small amounts)
💡 Tip: If it grew in the ground, it likely belongs in the brown bin.
What You CAN’T Put in the NYC Compost Bin
Some items look compostable but are not allowed in NYC’s compost bins. If the wrong stuff goes in, it can spoil the whole batch.
Here’s what to avoid:
❌ Plastics (Even "Biodegradable" Ones)
- Regular plastic bags
- Plastic containers or utensils
- “Biodegradable” plastic that’s not certified
Only BPI-certified compostable bags or paper bags are allowed.
❌ Metal, Glass, and Non-Food Trash
- Aluminum foil
- Cans or bottles
- Plastic wrappers
- Cleaning wipes
- Foam containers
These belong in recycling or trash — not compost.
❌ Personal Hygiene Items
- Diapers or baby wipes
- Sanitary products
- Tissues with makeup or chemicals
- Pet waste or cat litter
These carry bacteria or chemicals that can’t go in compost.
Compost Bag Rules: What Kind of Bag Can You Use?
| Bag Type | Allowed in NYC Compost Bin? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Paper bags | ✅ Yes | Natural and compost-safe. Breaks down easily. |
| BPI-certified compostable bags | ✅ Yes | Must display the “BPI Certified Compostable” logo or text. |
| Plastic bags from stores | ❌ No | Not compostable. Should go in regular trash or recycling (if allowed). |
| Trash bags (regular or kitchen type) | ❌ No | Made of plastic; not compostable. |
| "Biodegradable" bags without labels | ❌ No | Only certified compostable bags are accepted. “Biodegradable” ≠ compostable. |
What Happens if You Don't Follow Nyc Composting Rules?
DSNY wants to make composting easy, not scary. But breaking the rules can cause problems like:
- Contaminated compost that can’t be used
- Missed collections (DSNY might skip bins with too much trash)
- Complaints from neighbors or building staff
Right now, there are no fines for mistakes, but repeated issues can lead to warnings. So it’s best to follow the compost guidelines closely.
How to Stay up to Date on NYC Composting Regulations
Regulations may change from time to time, especially as a project develops.
- Visit the official DSNY composting website
- If you have questions or need help, call 311
- Contact your local community board or neighborhood group
- Sign up for DSNY email updates
Tips for the composting process:
Printable sorting guide:
You can download a composting guide from the DSNY website（https://www.nyc.gov/). The guide will show pictures of what to put in your trash can.
Where to buy compostable bags:
- Amazon
- Target
- Whole Foods
- Local hardware store
- Look for bags marked "BPI Certified Compostable.
Clean brown trash cans:
- Rinse with water or vinegar once a week
- Put newspaper in the bottom of the trash can
- Freeze odorous trash before putting it in
FAQ
Can I compost meat and dairy in NYC?
Yes! Unlike backyard composting, NYC’s system can handle meat, bones, and dairy products.
Are compost bins free in NYC?
Yes, DSNY provides brown bins for free to eligible homes and buildings.
Can I use any bag inside the compost bin?
No — only paper or BPI-certified compostable bags are allowed.
Can I compost at a drop-off site instead of using a bin?
Yes, there are many drop-off spots at farmers markets and community gardens.
Do I need to rinse the bin?
It’s not required, but rinsing helps reduce smells and pests.
Conclusion
Composting in NYC is a simple way to help your city and the planet. But it only works if we all follow the same rules. By learning what you can and can’t compost, you’re already making a difference.
🌿 Ready to get started? Check your eligibility and request your NYC compost bin today at https://www.nyc.gov/site/dsny/collection/residents/curbside-composting.page.
