NYCHA’s Updated Trash Disposal Policy

NYCHA is committed to ensuring a safe and clean environment for residents and their guests. In support of this key priority, the Authority updated its policy on proper trash disposal, effective November 25, 2024. 

In accordance with NYCHA’s Resident Lease Agreement, residents and their guests must dispose of all trash, rubbish, and other waste in a sanitary, safe, and lawful manner, and must keep the premises free of litter. To properly dispose of trash, NYCHA tenants, members of the household, and their guests must:     

• Use appropriately sized trash bags (approximately 4 gallons or less) that fit inside the trash chute doors (oversized bags can block the chutes).  
• Dispose of large items (such as mattresses or bulky furniture) in the designated trash collection area at the development.   
• Dispose of trash in a way that does not harm NYCHA residents or employees or cause unsanitary conditions at NYCHA properties. (For example, throwing trash or heavy objects out of apartment windows is not permitted.) 
• Leave trash only in locations designated for trash disposal. (Placing trash in front of the trash chute door or in lobbies or hallways, for instance, is not permitted.) 
• Dispose of recyclables in designated bins and locations only.  

The updated policy includes a graduated enforcement process (effective November 25, 2024): Residents who are observed and reported violating the trash disposal policy will first receive a warning and guidance materials on proper disposal. Subsequent violations during a three-month period will result in the issuance of a fine to the resident ($15 for the second violation and $25 for each additional violation). If a resident, member of the household, or guest is reported and observed to have committed three or more violations within a three-month period, NYCHA will initiate termination of tenancy proceedings as a last resort. A $25 fine will be issued for any additional violations during the termination of tenancy proceedings. In each of these cases, the resident will be sent a Notification of Violation and Fine, as well as information about proper trash disposal.  

Please note that this graduated enforcement process does not apply to residents whose improper disposal of trash or unwanted items creates a serious health or safety hazard for other residents, NYCHA staff, or members of the public. In these instances, NYCHA will pursue termination of tenancy without a graduated process.  

We will continue to educate residents on the new trash disposal policy, including through the posting of updated signage at developments and other information. 

For more information on proper trash disposal at NYCHA, click here. We appreciate your partnership as we strive to maintain safe and clean NYCHA communities.