M9 Containerization

Empire Bins

Properties with 31+ units are REQUIRED to use Empire Bins for trash.

Properties with 10-30 units were given a choice between using Empire Bins or individual bins for their trash.

Empire Bins are stationary, on-street containers assigned to a specific property, solely for the use of that property. These bins are locked, accessible only by building staff and waste managers using access cards assigned to the bins. Each Empire Bin can hold approximately four cubic yards of waste, serviced by new DSNY side-loading trucks.

Report an Issue

Building owners and waste management of properties with Empire Bins installed for their use can report issues with their Empire Bins or access cards.

Submit an Empire Bin service request

Using Your Empire Bin and Access Card

Your access cards are assigned to you, and only unlock the Empire Bins for your building. Empire Bins are accessible by building staff and waste managers ONLY. Residents should not have access to Empire Bins and should continue to bring waste to your building's designated collection area.

To unlock your Empire Bin:

• Hold the access card over the card reader
• The lights on the reader will turn green and the reader will beep.
• This will unlock the bin, allowing you to use the foot, hand, or lid levers to open the bin.
• After you place your trash inside, close the lid, and the Empire Bin will lock.
  

How To Use Your Empire Bin Access Card

Setting Out Trash

• Trash can be placed in the bins any time of day. Your trash collection schedule has not changed.
• Place bagged trash ONLY into the bin – NO recycling or compost.
• If you have large (bulky) items that cannot fit into the Empire Bin, leave them at the curb in front of your building. DO NOT block the Empire Bins.
• DO NOT leave bags of trash outside the Empire Bin. Property managers are responsible for putting all trash in their building's Empire Bins and keeping the area surrounding the bin clean, well-maintained, and clear of litter.
• DSNY maintains your Empire Bin and empties it using an automated side-loading vehicle.
  

Individual Bins

As of November 12, 2024, all properties CITYWIDE with 1-9 residential units were required to use bins, 55 gallons or less, with secure lids with secure lids for trash set out.

Properties in M9 with 10-30 units were given a choice between using Empire Bins or individual bins for their trash.

• As of June 1, 2025, properties in M9 with 10-30 residential units without Empire Bins must set out trash in individual bins, 55 gallons or less, with secure lids.
• As of June 1, 2026, ALL residential properties using individual bins must use official NYC Bins for trash setout.

Learn more about residential waste containerization and the official NYC Bins.

Large Items

Have something bulky that won't fit in the bin? That's okay! Leave it in front of your building and we will pick it up from there.

Hamilton Heights Containerization

Hamilton Heights was the first neighborhood in NYC to take part in a new program to get trash bags off the street and into bins.

On June 1, 2025, the program transitioned to become part of the M9 Containerization Pilot.

What's Next

The program is currently rolling out in Brooklyn Community District 2 (BK2).

It will then expand to:

• Bronx Community Board 2 and 5
• Queens Community Board 2
• Manhattan Community Board 2
• Brooklyn Community Board 8
• Staten Island Community Board 1

The Citywide Containerization Program is expected to be completed 2032.