DSNY is no longer providing free brown compost bins for residents receiving composting services for the first time.

DSNY does not provide free replacement compost bins.

Please note that you can use any labeled bin (55 gallons or less) with a secure lid for compost disposal. You can line your bin with a clear plastic, paper, or compostable bag to help keep it clean. Tie the bag closed before putting the bin on the curb for collection.

Request a free composting bin decal for your bin online at nyc.gov/CompostingBinDecal.

Official NYC Bins for compost disposal are also available for purchase online. Visit bins.nyc to learn more and place an order.

Kitchen Compost Containers 

You can use any bag or container to collect food scraps, food-soiled paper, and plant waste within your home. You can store food scraps in the freezer to prevent odors.

Once the bag or container is full, empty the scraps from your home into your building's compost bin. 

Kitchen Container Giveaways

DSNY will host community events to educate the public about curbside composting and give away kitchen containers for food scraps. 

No events are scheduled at this time. Check back regularly for updates.

Submit Feedback

DSNY distributed free compost bins in 2024 for a limited time only.

You can submit feedback about DSNY compost bins, including if you signed up to get a free compost bin last year and did not receive it.

Submit feedback to the Department of Sanitation.

There is a City Council bill proposing that the Department of Sanitation (DSNY) distribute official NYC waste bins and offer reimbursement for some residential buildings. 

Only buildings with 2 or fewer residential units would be eligible for the free bins or reimbursement. Property owners would also have to meet certain tax and income qualifications.

This bill has not become law yet.

DSNY is not providing free bins or reimbursements at this time.

The NYC Bin is the official bin for properties with 1-9 residential units (including single-family homes to 9-unit apartment buildings).

All NYC Bins:

• Are available at a discounted price, including free shipping and handling.  
• Have the official Department of Sanitation logo. You do not need to order a decal for the bin. 
• Include a space for property owners to write their addresses for easy identification.

These bins are only for residential properties, not for businesses.

Visit bins.nyc to learn more and purchase official NYC Bins for trash, recycling, and compost. 

Get answers to frequently asked questions about NYC Bins.

Purchase NYC Bins

The following NYC Bins are available for purchase:

• Black waste bins are for household trash (anything that cannot be recycled or composted).  
• Brown compost bins are for disposing leaf and yard waste, food scraps, and food-soiled paper. 
• Blue recycling bins are for disposing glass, metal, and plastic. 
• Green recycling bins are for disposing paper and cardboard pieces. 

There are a few ways to buy official NYC bins:

Online

Order NYC Bins.

By Phone