NYC’s New Composting Law: What You Need to Know (and What You Need to Buy)

🌱 Composting Is Now Mandatory in NYC

As of April 1, 2025, New York City requires all food waste, yard waste, and food-soiled paper to be separated from trash for composting. This law applies to all residential buildings and commercial businesses, and fines of up to $300 per violation are now being issued to those not in compliance. Curbside composting is now citywide and picked up weekly on your recycling day. That means you need to start separating scraps—and you'll need the right tools to do it cleanly, safely, and conveniently.

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🗑 What Can Be Composted?

According to DSNY, these items should go in your compost bin:

• 🥕 Food scraps: fruit, vegetables, meat, bones, dairy, eggshells

• 🍕 Food-soiled paper: napkins, paper towels, greasy pizza boxes, uncoated paper plates

• 🌿 Yard waste: leaves, twigs, grass, garden clippings

• ✅ Certified compostable products like bags, utensils, and food containers

NOT accepted: Plastic, glass, metal, diapers, hygiene products, pet waste, clean paper/cardboard.

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🧼 How to Store and Dispose of Compost

To avoid odor, mess, and pests, NYC recommends:

• Use a 55-gallon or smaller bin with a secure lid.

• Line your bin with a certified compostable bag, clear plastic, or paper bag (check your bin's requirements).

• Store kitchen scraps in the freezer until it’s time to empty your container.

• Tie bags before placing in the bin and write your address on the container.

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🛍 Composting Supplies for NYC Homes & Businesses

Green Paper Products offers BPI-certified compostable bags and eco-friendly supplies that meet NYC guidelines.

🏠 For Residential Use

• Compost Bin Liners – 2.5 Gallon Bags (SKU: G100)
  Perfect for countertop pails and under-sink bins.

• 7 Gallon Kitchen Compost Bags (SKU: G107)
  Our best seller for small bins in an office or home bathroom.

🏢 For Buildings & Businesses

• 30 Gallon Compostable Bags (SKU: G104)
  Ideal for medium indoor collection bins.

• 64 Gallon Heavy Duty Compost Bags (SKU: G108)
  Designed for curbside bins with secure lids.

♻️ Compostable Foodservice Products

If your restaurant, café, or office is switching to compostables, we’ve got:

• Certified compostable plates, bowls, and utensils

• Takeout containers and cups

• Lined paper bags and compostable cling wrap

📦 Bulk pricing available for property managers, co-ops, and commercial buyers.