By Y.M. Lowy

Earlier today, BoroPark24 reported that many Brooklyn residents are still unclear about the city’s composting rules. For many in Boro Park especially, keeping up with constant updates isn’t always simple, particularly for those who are not on social media.

In response to that article, the New York City Department of Sanitation reached out directly to make sure residents have all the information they need in one place.

They also noted that outreach hasn’t been limited to online updates. Efforts have included community board meetings, mailers, and even door-to-door engagement in neighborhoods like Boro Park over the past few years.

So what do residents actually need to know?

Place all food and yard waste into a bin with a secure lid and set it out on your recycling day. The bin can be lined with a paper bag, compostable bag, clear plastic bag—or not lined at all.

Beyond that basic rule, here’s a clearer breakdown of what belongs in compost:

Food scraps of all kinds are accepted, including meat, bones, and dairy. Prepared and cooked foods can go in as well. Yard waste such as leaves and branches is included, along with food-soiled paper like greasy pizza boxes and uncoated paper plates. Certified compostable products are also allowed.

There are some important exceptions. Items like wrappers, pet waste, diapers, medical waste, foam, and hygiene products should still go in regular trash.

As for bins, they must be 55 gallons or smaller and have a secure lid. Residents can use any bin that fits those guidelines, as long as it’s clearly labeled as compost so sanitation workers can identify it. For extra yard waste, paper lawn bags or clear plastic bags can be used, and branches can be tied together and placed alongside bins.

Collected material is processed into compost used in parks and gardens, or converted into renewable energy that helps power homes and businesses.

Composting is meant to be just as routine as recycling paper, glass, and plastic—something New Yorkers have already been doing for years.

As always, BoroPark24 will continue passing along updates as they come in, making sure the community stays informed.