Cleaning Rules for Businesses

Businesses must keep the areas around their buildings clean. They must remove all litter and animal waste from sidewalks (including tree pits and grass strips), gutters (18 inches from the curb into the street), and public spaces (like yards and alleys) along their building's perimeter.

Inspections are carried out during specific times of the day. Cleaning enforcement times depend on the type of property.

Although enforcement agents issue tickets for dirty sidewalks, gutters, and areas only during specific time periods, they may issue tickets for all other violations at any time.

If you fail to keep the sidewalks, gutters, and other public spaces near your business clean and free from obstruction, you may be fined.

Escalating Fines

Beginning December 19, 2024 the penalty schedule will increase for repeat offenders within a 12-month period.

Local Law 67 of 2024 imposes escalating fines on businesses that repeatedly fail to keep their sidewalks and gutter areas clean and free from obstruction.