In effect
New York City organics rules
New York City has two sets of rules. At home, Local Law 85 of 2023 makes organics separation mandatory in every residential building. For businesses, Local Law 146 covers large food service, chains, big hotels, grocers and venues, and Local Law 118 of 2026 lets DSNY expand that to all food businesses.
Homes and apartment buildings In effect
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- Ordinance
- Local Law 85 of 2023
- Who’s covered
- All residential buildings
- Apartment buildings must provide compost
- Yes
- What you have to do
- Curbside organics separation; owner/manager fines $25–$300 (9+ units: $100/$200/$300)
- Key dates
- Mandatory since Oct 2024; fines from Apr 1, 2025
- Worth knowing
- Small-building fine enforcement unclear after pause
Businesses Coming
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- Ordinance
- Local Law 146 of 2013 (16 RCNY 1-11) + Local Law 118 of 2026 (Int. 31-A)
- Who’s covered
- Large food service, chains, hotels 100+ rooms, grocers 10k+ sq ft, venues; LL118 lets DSNY expand to all food businesses
- Apartment buildings must provide compost
- No
- What you have to do
- Source-separate organics; haulers share donation info
- Key dates
- LL118 law July 30, 2026; DSNY capacity finding due Dec 1, 2026
✦ The state picture
Rules in New York
New York City sits inside New York. State rules can apply on top of city rules.
✦ Keep an eye on
What’s changing
- Dec 1, 2026Capacity determination for commercial expansion under LL118
01 / Our job
What Melly’s handles
- Which rules apply to each of your New York City locations
- File the paperwork for you
- Set up pickup or a compliant hauler
- Keep your records current so you are ready if an inspector asks
✦ Where this comes from
Sources
Last checked October 14, 2026. Laws change. If something here looks out of date, tell us.
These are plain-English summaries for general information, not legal advice. Always confirm with the official source.
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