New York City’s War on Rats and Sidewalk Trash
New York City is taking another step in its war on rats and sidewalk trash, as residents can expect to see less bags and more bins on the streets starting Tuesday.
Container Requirements for Small Buildings
All buildings with one to nine housing units will have to start putting household trash for pickup in large plastic containers — which are said to be rat-proof — on the curb rather than just leaving the bags themselves. It’s the first time in 50 years trash won’t simply be left on the roadside for takeaway.
“It serves as an all night buffet for the rats. It’s time to differently time to live like the rest of the world lives,” said NYC Sanitation Commissioner Jessica Tisch.
Purchasing and Using the Official Bins
The city sells the official bins, which come in two sizes and have lids that seal, to property owners for $50 each. More than 400,000 have been purchased as of Monday.
The rule applies to apartment buildings and single family homes.
What About Those Who Haven’t Purchased a Bin?
For those who had not yet purchased one of the new receptacles, don’t fret: There will be a grace period until Jan. 2. During that time, the Department of Sanitation will give out warnings to property owners not using bins. After that time, fines from $50 to $200 will be issued.
“We want to give a reasonable period to buy bins, learn the new muscle memory: bins rather than sidewalks,” said Commissioner Tisch. “My message to New Yorkers is very simple: It’s time to bring dignity and order back to every block borough.”
Phased Implementation and Expansion
Larger buildings will join the container trend in Spring 2025, as the city gets ready to roll out new garbage trucks that will empty sidewalk bins setup for larger structures. The program, which the city has said will also cut down on workplace injuries among sanitation workers, is modeled after European cities like Barcelona.
“We are only catching up with what municipalities across the globe are doing,” said Mayor Eric Adams.
History of Trash Regulations in NYC
Just under a year ago, in Aug. 2023, the city started requiring restaurants, convenience stores and bars to use a sturdy trash can with a secure lid. The following month, the requirement was extended to chain stores.
In March, all 200,000 businesses in the Big Apple were required to put out their bags of trash in garbage bins, as communities across the county and world have long done.
Conclusion
The city’s new policies aim to cut down on the piles of curbside garbage bags and improve the overall cleanliness and safety of the city. With the implementation of the new container requirements, New Yorkers can expect to see a reduction in rat sightings and an overall improvement in the city’s streets.
FAQs
Q: Who needs to purchase a bin?
A: Buildings with one to nine housing units need to purchase a bin.
Q: How much do the bins cost?
A: The city sells the official bins for $50 each.
Q: What happens if I don’t purchase a bin?
A: During the grace period, you will receive a warning. After the grace period, fines from $50 to $200 will be issued.
Q: When will larger buildings start using containers?
A: Larger buildings will join the container trend in Spring 2025.
Q: What inspired the city’s new trash policies?
A: The city’s policies are modeled after European cities like Barcelona and aim to improve the overall cleanliness and safety of the city.
