New York City Mandates Covered Trash Bins to Combat Rat Infestation

The city introduces new regulations requiring trash to be placed in lidded containers, marking a major shift in waste management practices.

As of November 12, all NYC residential buildings with fewer than 10 units are required to use covered trash bins, with larger buildings to follow suit in the future.
The policy aims to reduce rat infestations by eliminating easy access to garbage previously left in plastic bags on sidewalks.
The change has drawn mixed reactions, with some praising the move as overdue and others citing logistical challenges, such as limited space for bins in dense neighborhoods.
Building managers and residents report increased costs and labor associated with handling the bins, including hiring additional help to comply with the rules.
Fines for non-compliance, ranging from $50 to $200, will begin on January 2, as city officials continue to educate residents on the new requirements.