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New York City Implements New Garbage Rules to Combat Rat Problem

What you should know

The next phase of the war against rats in New York City begins this Tuesday, August 1, with new rules related to garbage. This is because as of this date, all food-related companies in the city, such as restaurants Grocery stores and bodegas must use rigid containers with secure lids when placing trash for collection. The move is part of an effort to combat the Big Apple’s rodent problem. This new plan would also affect wineries.

NEW YORK — The next phase of New York City’s war on rats kicks off this Tuesday, August 1, with new rules related to trash.

This is because as of this date, all food-related businesses in the city, such as restaurants, supermarkets, and warehouses, must use rigid containers with secure lids when placing garbage for collection. The move is part of an effort to combat the rodent problem in the Big Apple. This new plan would also affect wineries.

Department of Sanitation Commissioner Tisch noted in the announcement that the black bags outside food-related businesses basically serve as “to-go boxes” for rats. Deputy Mayor for Operations Meer Joshi hoped the rule would be another step towards the end of the “garbage bag mountains”.

“Nobody wants to see it, nobody wants to smell it, and we certainly don’t want rats to eat it,” Tisch said.

Under these two rules, companies will have flexibility in the type and location of containers, as long as they have a secure lid and sides. Containers may be stored within the establishment or within three feet of the property line.

These rules begin one day after the law went into effect that prohibits Big Apple food service establishments that provide take-out and delivery service from providing utensils, condiment packets, napkins, plates, or additional containers to customers, unless the same customers request such items.

Here we share the main points of etsa rule:

What is the new rule about and how much does it start?

Beginning August 1, 2023, all New York City food-related businesses are required to use rigid containers with secure lids when placing trash for collection.

Who must comply with the standard?

The new rule affects all food-related businesses. This includes establishments catering, food manufacturers, food preparation establishments, food service establishments, food wholesalers, and retail food stores. Restaurants, supermarkets, delis, bodegas, caterers and other businesses that sell or handle food must comply with the rule.

What material is affected?

Any putrescible material (garbage or organic material) placed on the curb for collection must be in a container with a secure lid. The requirement does not apply to other recyclable materials (metal, glass, plastic, or paper) or to businesses that collect waste from a loading dock.

This rule does not require the separation of garbage and organics, only the use of containers for collection. However, some companies are required to separate their organic waste. If your business meets the minimum requirements, it must comply with the New York City Commercial Organic Rules. Here you can see if the requirements for commercial organic products apply to you.

How does the schedule for taking out the garbage work?

Under recently established rules, businesses that place waste at the curb have two options:

Place trash curbside 1 hour before closing OR After 8:00 pm, if you take out trash after 8:00 pm, recyclables do not need to be in a container.

How to store containers?

Containers should be stored indoors or in a backyard if possible. If space is not available, containers may be stored within three (3) feet of the building line when not placed for collection. Containers must be kept clean and tidy and must always leave a clear path for pedestrians on the sidewalk.

NOTE: Businesses that are required to source source organics per Local Law 146 of 2013 must continue to do so by placing their food waste in a separate container with a locking lid. Garbage must be placed in a separate container.

Where can I find more information?

The Department of Sanitation offers virtual meetings for those who want to learn more about the subject. Here the dates:

For more information go here.

2023-08-01 13:09:11
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