NYC Sanitation (DSNY Waste and Cleanliness Rules)
The New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) regulates how businesses store trash, manage waste, and maintain clean sidewalks. These rules apply daily and are actively enforced against retail businesses across the city.
Sanitation violations are among the most common tickets issued to NYC retailers and can result in repeat fines if not corrected.
What This Covers
- Trash storage and set-out rules
- Recycling requirements
- Sidewalk and storefront cleanliness standards
- Commercial waste hauling requirements
- Enforcement authority
Trash Storage and Set-Out Rules
Defines how and when trash may be placed outside.
- All trash must be stored in sealed containers
- Trash may only be set out during approved DSNY hours
- Loose bags or uncovered waste are violations
- Early or late set-out can result in daily fines
Recycling Requirements
Explains mandatory recycling practices.
- Cardboard must be broken down
- Recyclables must be separated from trash
- Improper recycling can trigger citations
Sidewalk and Storefront Cleanliness
Requires constant maintenance of public areas.
- Sidewalks must remain clean at all times
- Entrances and storefront areas must be free of debris
- Gutters adjacent to the business must be kept clean
Commercial Waste Haulers
Clarifies how business trash must be handled.
- DSNY does not collect business trash
- Retailers must contract with a licensed commercial waste hauler
- Haulers must comply with NYC Commercial Waste Zone rules
Enforcement
Identifies the enforcing authority.
- Enforcement agency: New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY)
- Violations may be issued daily until corrected
What Operators Usually Miss
- Sidewalk cleanliness applies even when trash is not set out
- Cardboard must be flattened, not just recycled
- Sanitation tickets can be issued repeatedly for the same issue
When This Comes Up
- Daily store operations
- Trash pickup days
- Inspections or complaints
- License renewal reviews involving compliance history
What Happens If You Ignore This
- Daily sanitation fines
- Accumulated penalties
- Increased inspection frequency
- Compliance issues during renewals
Related Pages
Source Material
