Starting Tuesday, September 8, 2026, the New York City Department of Sanitation will begin issuing summonses and monetary penalties to owners of residential buildings that contain nine units or fewer if they place black trash bags on street curbs instead of using the city‑approved collection system. The new enforcement targets small‑scale landlords who have been cited for allowing waste to accumulate on sidewalks.
The rule applies specifically to owners of buildings with up to nine housing units. Under the ordinance, any black trash bag left on the curb for collection will be considered a violation, and a summons will be delivered to the property owner. The department has not released a specific fine amount, but the summons will require payment within the timeframe set by city regulations.
City officials say the measure is intended to reduce rat infestations that thrive on exposed garbage and to keep sidewalks free of litter. Piles of black bags have long been identified as a magnet for rodents, creating health hazards for pedestrians and residents alike. By forcing compliance with approved waste‑handling methods, the department hopes to see a measurable drop in rodent activity across neighborhoods.
The sanitation agency previously issued public warnings that curbside black bags contributed to unsanitary conditions. Those alerts emphasized the link between visible trash and rising rodent populations, especially during the summer months. After Labor Day weekend, the city is moving from advisory notices to formal enforcement, signaling a shift toward stricter oversight of waste disposal practices.
Owners who receive a summons are expected to adjust their waste‑management procedures promptly, using city‑provided containers or scheduled pickups. The department will continue to monitor compliance and may impose additional penalties for repeat violations. The policy reflects the city's broader effort to maintain cleaner streets and protect public health through targeted regulation of waste disposal in smaller residential properties.