Total Management NYC: Curbside Composting for Apartment Residents

NYC’s Mandatory Curbside Composting Program

Total Management NYC is committed to keeping our buildings compliant with NYC Department of Sanitation (DSNY) regulations while maintaining a clean and sustainable living environment. As of October 6, 2024, compost separation is mandatory in all NYC apartment buildings. Starting April 1, 2025, fines will be issued for non-compliance.

By properly sorting compostable materials, we reduce landfill waste, control rodent issues, and support a greener city.

For official DSNY guidelines, visit: DSNY Curbside Composting.

What Residents Need to Do

1. Sort Your Waste Properly

Place in the Compost Bin:

  • All food scraps, including meat, dairy, eggshells, fruits, vegetables, seafood, and coffee grounds

  • Food-soiled paper, such as greasy napkins, paper towels, and uncoated takeout containers

  • Yard waste, including flowers, small branches, and leaves

Do Not Put in the Compost Bin:

  • Plastic bags, metal, glass, or Styrofoam

  • Pet waste, diapers, or hygiene products

  • Liquids, oils, or non-food items

2. Use the Correct Bin in Your Building

  • Your building must provide a designated compost bin in the basement, trash room, or near other waste containers.

  • If your building has individual brown compost bins, please use them.

  • Only use clear plastic, paper, or compostable bags to collect scraps before disposing of them.

3. Follow Collection Rules

  • Compost is collected on your building’s recycling day—check with management or use the DSNY collection schedule.

  • If your building has a superintendent, they will ensure compost bins are placed at the curb for collection.

Compliance & Enforcement

  • Until March 31, 2025: Residents will receive warnings for non-compliance.

  • Starting April 1, 2025: Fines will be issued to buildings that fail to separate compost properly. These fines may be passed on to residents who do not comply.

Why Compost?

  • Keeps NYC streets cleaner and reduces rodent problems

  • Helps NYC meet sustainability goals

  • Creates compost for parks and gardens

  • Reduces waste sent to landfills

Proper composting benefits both the environment and our building community.

Resources & Informational Flyers

For more detailed guidance, DSNY provides informational materials:

Let’s work together to keep our buildings clean and compliant while making NYC a greener place to live!

For any questions, contact Total Management NYC.