NYC Rolls Out Official Trash Bins in Bid to Clean Up Streets

New York City is taking a big step towards cleaner streets and more efficient waste management by introducing the first-ever official NYC Bin and a new timeline for residential trash containerization.

Mayor Eric Adams and Sanitation Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced the initiative at Gracie Mansion on Monday, July 8th, symbolically setting out the mansion’s trash and recycling in the new containers.

Starting November 12, all residential buildings with 1-9 units will be required to use these new containers for trash disposal. 

The city-approved bins, designed to work with sanitation vehicles, come in various sizes and are priced more affordably than retail alternatives.

“Today, we are tossing even more black bags into the dustbin of history and taking the next step forward in our ‘Trash Revolution,'” declared Mayor Adams. “The first-ever, official NYC Bin is high-quality, affordable, and will build on our efforts containerizing more than 70%  of the city’s trash to protect our most valuable and limited resource — our public space.”

Department of Sanitation Commissioner Jessica Tisch highlighted the economic benefits of the new bins, saying, “We’re unveiling the official ‘NYC Bin‘ — beautiful, durable, and less than $50 for the most common size.”

Tisch continued, “Many property owners already use bins for their trash – and pay over $100 retail in order to keep the streets clean.” The wheeled bins feature latching lids and are available in 35-gallon and 45-gallon sizes for trash and recycling, with a 21-gallon option for compost. Prices range from $43.47 to $53.01, including shipping and handling.

Buildings currently using containers with latching lids have an 18-month grace period to switch to the official bins. 

The city recommends ordering the bins by October 1 to meet the November 12 deadline. Fines for non-compliance will begin on January 2, 2025, starting at $50 for the first offense and increasing for subsequent violations.

The push for containerization is part of a broader strategy to enhance urban cleanliness and safety. Last year, the city adjusted garbage set-out times and implemented containerization for businesses in an attempt to curb the city’s rat population.

Future plans include a pilot program for stationary, on-street containers in select Manhattan neighborhoods, serviced by new automated side-loading trucks.