Print icon Print

NYC Bin FAQ

General Information

What is the NYC Bin?

The NYC Bin is the official bin exclusively for one- and two-family homes and properties with up to 9 residential units to set out their trash. City agencies, nonprofits, houses of worship, and professional offices in residential buildings are also required to use NYC Bins. They are available for purchase at a significantly lower price than similar bins at retail stores.

You can purchase NYC Bins at www.bins.nyc or by calling 1-855-NYC-BINS. They are also available at every Home Depot in New York City, for the same price offered online.

NYC Bins are exclusively available for NYC property owners and building managers and will only be delivered to addresses within the five boroughs.

Is the NYC Bin just for trash, or for all waste such as recycling and composting?

Separate NYC Bins are available for purchase for recycling and composting, though they are not required.

How much is the NYC Bin?

The NYC Bin is available at a significantly lower price than similar bins at retail stores. Pricing depends on the size. Details are available at www.bins.nyc.

I already ordered NYC Bins on www.bins.nyc. Can I pick up my bin at Home Depot instead?

No. If you ordered bins through www.bins.nyc, you will receive an email when your bin delivery is scheduled. Orders placed after October 1 will be delivered on a rolling basis.

Can I order bins for delivery through Home Depot?

If you would like your NYC Bins to be delivered to your home, place your order at www.bins.nyc. 

Requirements

When do I need to start using the NYC Bin?

  • November 12, 2024: All properties with 1-9 residential units must use bins, 55 gallons or less, with secure lids for trash set out.
  • June 2026: All properties with 1-9 residential units will be required to use the official NYC Bin for trash set out.

Who is required to buy the NYC Bin?

Property owners and building managers of one- and two-family homes and properties with up to 9 residential units are responsible for purchasing NYC Bins for trash.

City agencies, nonprofits, houses of worship, and professional offices in residential buildings that receive DSNY collection are also required to use NYC Bins. Building managers must ensure there are sufficient bins to store all the trash produced by residents in their buildings.

Do I need to use a NYC Bin to set out my compost?

You do not need to use a specific NYC Bin for composting, but they are available for purchase. Compost must be set out in sealed bins of 55 gallons or less. Curbside Composting service is now available to all NYC residents citywide. Find out more about Curbside Composting.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

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

Warning Period

A warning period will be in effect through January 2, 2025.

After the warning period, failure to use a bin that is 55 gallons or less with a secure lid for trash set out will result in fines:

  • $50 for the first offense
  • $100 for the second offense
  • $200 for the third and subsequent offenses

Bin Specifications

What sizes are available for the NYC Bin?

  • 35-Gallon Bin: Ideal for small, single-family homes. It can hold up to 3 kitchen trash bags.
  • 45-Gallon Bin: Recommended for properties with multiple residential units. It can hold up to 4 kitchen trash bags.
  • 21-Gallon Bin for Compost: It can hold up to 7 three-gallon compost bags.

Do my bins need to be lined with a bag?

No, but using a liner helps keep your bin clean. For your compost bin, line only with clear plastic, paper, or compostable bags.

Using the NYC Bin

How many NYC Bins do I need?

Property owners and building managers should ensure there are enough bins to accommodate all trash in sealed NYC Bins.

What should I do if I have extra trash from a one-time event (like a party, spring cleaning, or home construction project) that doesn't fit into my bins?

Property owners and managers should ensure they have sufficient bins to accommodate all trash.

Delivery and Tracking

How can I track delivery of my NYC Bin?

You can track your delivery online by visiting www.bins.nyc and clicking on "Order Status." Use your order number, email address, last name, and phone number to check the status of your order.

If you purchased your NYC Bins from HomeDepot.com for store pickup, you will receive communication via your preferred communication method (text, email, etc.) from Home Depot when your order is ready for pickup.

Issues and Replacements

What if I already own bins?

You may continue to use your existing bins until June 2026, if they have secure lids and are 55 gallons or less. After that, you will need to switch to the Official NYC Bin.

How do I dispose of my old bins?

Plastic and metal bins are recyclable. To dispose of them, place the old bins upside down on your recycling day with a note indicating that they are for recycling.

What if my NYC Bin arrives damaged?

Contact the manufacturer directly at www.bins.nyc. If you ordered your bin from Home Depot, you can return it directly to the store for assistance.

Do the NYC Bins come with a warranty?

Yes. The NYC Bin comes with a 10-year warranty. Visit www.bins.nyc for more details.

What should I do if my bin is stolen?

File a police report with the NYPD. NYC Bins include a space for property owners to write their address for easy identification.

Support

For any other questions about NYC Bins or order status, visit www.bins.nyc. For questions about New York City's containerization rules, visit the Department of Sanitation website at www.nyc.gov/nycbins.