Trash and Recycling Collection in New York City

New York City provides garbage, recycling, and organic waste collection to over 3 million households through the Department of Sanitation (DSNY). This article covers key details on trash and recycling schedules, policies, and resources for NYC residents and businesses.

Collection Days

• Garbage is collected 2-3 times per week depending on location.
• Recycling is collected weekly.
• Organics are collected weekly.

Use the DSNY collection schedule lookup and enter your address to find your designated pickup days.

Set materials at the curb by 6 AM on collection days. Pickup occurs between 4 AM – 2 PM.

Garbage Guidance

• Garbage must be properly contained in bags or cans.
• Do not overflow or overfill containers.
• Close lids securely on all containers.
• Place items at the curb no earlier than 4 PM the day before pickup.
• Remove empty containers by 9 PM on collection day.

Recycling Policies

• Place paper, glass, metal, plastic, and cartons loose in bins or clear bags. Do NOT use plastic bags.
• Make sure lids are closed and containers are not overfilled.
• Do not place recycling next to garbage bags.
• Return bins to proper storage locations after collection.

Accepted Recyclables

DSNY accepts the following common household recyclables:

• Paper and cardboard
• Metal cans, foil, containers
• Glass bottles and jars
• Plastic containers and bottles
• Milk and juice cartons
• Empty aerosol cans

Check the recycling guide for full details.

Organics Collection

Food scraps, food-soiled paper, yard waste, and other organic material is collected weekly citywide. Place organics in a bin labeled “Organics” at the curb.

Learn more about organics disposal.

Bulk Item Disposal

Large household items like furniture and appliances can be scheduled for special bulk pickup. Fees and restrictions apply.

Schedule bulk pickups by calling 311 or using the 311 Online Service Request.

Household Hazardous Waste

Hazardous materials like chemicals, CFL bulbs, and batteries cannot go in regular trash. Safely dispose of these items at a Household Special Waste Drop-off Site for free.

Holiday Schedule Changes

If your normal collection day falls on a major holiday, pickup is typically suspended and will be rescheduled later that week.

Major holidays impacting service are:

• New Year’s Day
• Memorial Day
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas Day

Check the DSNY holiday schedule for exact dates.

Missed Collection

Report any missed garbage or recycling pickup by the end of the next business day:

• Online: DSNY Online Service Request
• Phone: Call 311

Winter Policies

Snow storms may cause delays or suspensions to collection services. Check DSNY’s Twitter for real-time winter ops updates.

Place materials at accessible curb space cleared of ice and snow on pickup days. Collection will occur as soon as possible after storms.

Contact Information

• DSNY Customer Service: (646) 885-7300
• DSNY Twitter: @NYCSanitation
• NYC 311 Online Service Request

Follow DSNY policies to ensure efficient garbage and recycling collection for your New York City home or business.