Garbage Collection Sign Requirements in NYC

Garbage is one of the top reasons tenants complain and neighbors call 311. A clear garbage notice in the lobby won't fix every problem, but it answers the question every tenant asks: when and where does the trash go?

Here is what HPD requires, what to put on the notice and how the newer city trash rules fit in.

The quick answer

Most NYC buildings don't have dumbwaiter service anymore, so this sign applies to a lot of them. That includes many small walk ups and 3 family houses.

What to put on the notice

HPD asks for the hours and method of collection. In plain terms, tenants should be able to read the sign and know exactly what to do with their trash. A good notice covers:

1. 1
   Pickup daysTrash, recycling and compost days for your block.
2. 2
   Set out timeWhen bags or bins can go to the curb.
3. 3
   Where to bring itThe trash room, basement area or bin spot tenants should use.
4. 4
   How to sort itWhich bin is for trash, which is for recycling and which is for compost.

We print your building's schedule on a clean metal sign. Order the garbage collection notice, $42

The city trash rules changed

DSNY has tightened its rules over the last few years, and your notice should match them. As of 2026:

Pickup days are set by DSNY for your address, so look up your schedule on DSNY's collection page or by calling 311 before you order the sign. If DSNY changes your days, update the notice.

Where to post it

In the lobby, inside a frame or plastic cover so it stays clean. Most owners put it on the same wall as the other notices, like the housing guide, as shown in our lobby placement guide. Some also post a second copy in the trash room or by the back door where tenants actually drop off bags. That one isn't required, but it helps.

Going digital

Since February 2, 2026, the garbage notice is one of five notices (see the combined notice guide for the detector ones) that can be shown on a digital screen. The catch: if you go digital for one of the five, all five must be digital, with bold letters at least a quarter inch tall in English and Spanish. For most small buildings, a metal sign is simpler.

What this looks like in practice

Say tenants in a 6 unit building keep leaving bags out on Sunday morning, and the owner gets a DSNY ticket for early set out. The lobby has no garbage notice at all. A simple sign that says "Trash: Monday, Wednesday, Friday. Bins out after 6 PM the night before. Recycling: Thursday" solves most of it. Tenants follow rules they can see.

Tips from our shop

1. Keep it short.

   Days and times in big type. Nobody reads a paragraph about garbage. The full checklist shows what else goes on the wall.

2. Add Spanish if your tenants need it.

   It isn't required for the printed notice, but it helps in many buildings.

3. Plan for schedule changes.

   Ask us about a layout with a replaceable schedule insert.

Official sources: DSNY collection laws, HPD Required Signage.

Quick answers

My building has a compactor chute. Do I need the notice?

The requirement is for buildings without 24 hour dumbwaiter service. A chute is not the same as dumbwaiter service, so check your setup, and post the notice if tenants need to know collection times.

Does the notice have to be framed?

Yes. HPD says it must be enclosed in plastic or a frame. A metal sign works well too.

Where do I find my pickup days?

Look up your address on the DSNY website or call 311. Days can differ for trash, recycling and compost.

Not sure what your building needs?

Send us your address and number of apartments. We will tell you exactly which signs to order.

Call or text 718-213-7467Email info@hpdsignsny.com

General information based on the NYC HPD Required Signage page as of November 2026. Not legal advice. HPD Signs NYC is not affiliated with the City of New York or HPD. Prices may change. Check nyc.gov/hpd for the latest rules.