Sanitation — Required Containerization (Businesses, 2024)

As of March 1, 2024, most businesses citywide must place refuse in a secure, rigid, lidded container rather than in loose bags at the curb. Uncontainerized commercial waste placed out for collection is a violation, except where an approved exemption has been granted.

• loose black trash bags at the curb outside a commercial establishment with no bin
• torn garbage bags spilling onto sidewalk in front of a business
• pile of uncontainerized commercial waste with no rigid bin visible
• restaurant refuse in bags on the sidewalk rather than in a DSNY-approved container

1. Photograph trash, bags, or spill at the curb with building address visible.
2. Note time of day — set-out time violations require proof of early placement.
3. File at 311 under Dirty Conditions or Sanitation.
4. For commercial waste, note business name on signage if visible.

Official channel: portal.311.nyc.gov or dial 311. Agency: NYC DSNY.

DSNY fines range from $50–$500+ for set-out time, containerization, and dirty-area violations. Repeat commercial offenders may face escalated penalties.

DSNY Sanitation Enforcement inspects and may issue Notices of Violation. Residential issues may be referred to property management; commercial routes get BIC oversight.

• Dirty sidewalks
• Rats and rodents