The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) has set new rules for placing trash, recycling and compost out at the curb for collection. The new set-out times would help keep city streets clean and reduce food sources for rats. Under the new rules, residential buildings would have up to three options. Each option would decrease the amount of time items are left on the curb:
- Place items out after 6 PM in a secure container (bundled cardboard can also be placed next to the container), or
- Place items out after 8 PM if putting bags directly on the curb, or
- If a building has nine or more residential units, the property owner may opt in to a 4 AM to 7 AM set-out window instead. The opt-in period would run for the month of January each year, allowing DSNY to design quick and efficient routes that take effect April 1. The new set-out times will go into effect on April 1, 2023.
To dispose of specific items, you can use the Department of Sanitation’s website to find out how to properly dispose of them. You can also learn how to dispose of specific items that can’t be recycled.
What is the rat problem in New York City?
New York City is facing a rat problem with two million rats calling the city home. The rats are thriving on the streets, in sewers, in both abandoned and un-abandoned buildings, in the parks, in the subways, in shoe stores and in restaurants. The problem is getting worse.
The rats are the main source of the bacteria that cause leptospirosis in NYC. If you live or work in an area with a severe rat infestation or that is contaminated with rat urine, you are at risk of infection .
What is leptospirosis?
