New York City takes environmental issues very seriously, and in order to reduce household waste, we encourage everyone to compost organic waste for gardens, yards, and parks. Composting has been mandatory since April 1, 2025, separating compostable materials from garbage, but "How do I apply for a compost bin in New York City?" New York City's curbside composting program has expanded to more communities, and residents can compost as long as they apply for a brown trash can.
Why Compost in NYC
Household waste (leaves, food scraps, coffee grounds, paper with food scraps, and yard trimmings) is compostable in New York City. If it's thrown into landfills and destroyed, it will create a lot of methane gas, which will contribute to global warming. It's better to recycle resources.
And the best part? The city provides free compost bin nyc through its official program.
Who Can Request a Compost Bin in NYC?
Before you sign up for a NYC compost bin, here’s what you need to know:
✅ Eligibility:
- Single-family homes
- Buildings with up to 9 units
- Some larger apartment buildings, depending on your borough and building manager's participation
Currently, curbside composting is available in all five boroughs, but rollouts and pickup schedules vary slightly.
If you’re not sure if your address qualifies, you can always check on the official NYC Sanitation compost website (DSNY).
How to Request a Compost Bin in NYC
Step-by-Step Guide
- Check Your Eligibility: All NYC residential buildings are required to participate in the composting program. Buildings with four or more units must provide labeled compost bins in a designated area as of April 1, 2025. Single-family homes and small buildings with 1-9 units must use secure bins and will be required to use the official NYC Bin by June 2026.
- Order Your Bin:
- Free Bins: Residents of Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island can order a free brown compost bin online through the NYC Department of Sanitation (DSNY) website until October 28, 2024.
- Purchase Bins: Brooklyn and Queens residents who missed free distribution can purchase bins at www.bins.nyc or by calling 1-855-NYC-BINS.
- Bin Requirements: Bins must be 55 gallons or less, have secure lids, and be clearly labeled with NYC’s compost bin sign. You are not required to use the official brown NYC-branded bin, but it must meet these standards.
- Delivery & Cost: Free bins are available for a limited time; purchased bins typically cost less than $45 and are delivered within two weeks.
- FAQs: For more details on bin requirements and to check your collection schedule, visit the NYC DSNY composting page
What’s in the Compost Kit?
When you receive your bin, it typically includes:
- One brown 21-gallon compost bin
- A starter guide on what goes inside
- Sometimes a small kitchen pail for food scraps
If you didn’t get the pail, you can use any container with a lid, or buy a countertop compost bin from Amazon or your local store.
What Can You Put in the NYC Compost Bin?
You can toss a lot more than just food waste into your NYC compost bin. Here’s what’s allowed:
✅ Accepted Items:
- Fruit and veggie scraps
- Coffee grounds and filters
- Tea bags
- Bread, grains, and pasta
- Meat, bones, and dairy
- Paper napkins and paper towels (unbleached)
- Food-soiled paper
- Houseplants and flowers
- Yard waste (leaves, twigs, grass)
🚫 Not Accepted:
- Plastic bags
- Glass, metal, or plastic containers
- Pet waste
- Diapers
- Non-compostable packaging
💡 Tip: Use certified compostable bags (like BPI-certified liners) to line your pail. They make cleanup easier and help avoid mess and odors.
Where to Buy Certified Compostable Bags for NYC Programs
Certifications to Look For
- BPI Certified: Indicates the bag meets the Biodegradable Products Institute’s compostability standards.
- ASTM D6400: Ensures the bag is fully compostable in municipal and industrial facilities.
NYC-Compatible Sizes and Use Cases
- Kitchen Bin Liners: 3–13 gallons for countertop or under-sink bins.
- Outdoor/Yard Waste Bags: Up to 55 gallons for larger bins or yard debris.
NYC Compost Pickup Schedule
Once you’re signed up and have your bin, DSNY will collect your compost bin once a week — usually on the same day as recycling.
To find your specific compost pickup day:
- Use the DSNY collection schedule tool at nyc.gov
- Or call 311 and ask about curbside compost pickup in your area
What If I Live in an Apartment Building?
Good news — you may still be able to compost.
If Your Building Has 10+ Units:
- DSNY offers building-wide sign-up
- Ask your superintendent or property manager to enroll
- They’ll receive bins for common areas or for each unit
If your landlord isn’t participating yet, encourage them to sign up! There’s no cost, and DSNY provides education and support.
Alternatively, you can use drop-off sites at farmers markets, community gardens, and GrowNYC stations.
Other Ways to Compost in NYC (If You're Not Eligible)
Use a Local Drop-Off Site:
Bring your scraps to:
- Union Square Greenmarket
- Grand Army Plaza
- Various GrowNYC locations
- Community composting hubs
Check out the full NYC compost drop-off map here.
Try Indoor Composting or Bokashi:
If you have a little space, consider a worm bin or bokashi system — ideal for small apartments.
Conclusion
Requesting your NYC compost bin is one of the easiest ways to live more sustainably in the city. Whether you call it a brown bin, food scrap bin, or curbside compost container, it’s all part of helping NYC cut down on landfill waste and build a greener future.
So go ahead — sign up, start composting, and be part of the change.
🟢 Ready to get your compost bin? Click here to request yours from NYC Sanitation.
FAQ
Is the NYC compost bin really free?
Yes, brown trash cans are completely free. You just need to apply through the DSNY official website and you can get them for free once you meet the requirements.
How long does delivery take?
Usually within 2–4 weeks. You’ll get a confirmation email after signing up.
Can I use plastic bags inside the bin?
No — use paper bags or BPI-certified compostable bags only.
What happens if I move?
Leave the brown bin behind for the next resident. It stays with the property.
Do I need to rinse the bin?
Yes — a quick rinse with water helps avoid odors and pests.
