Smart Composting Bins allow residents to conveniently dispose of food scraps, food-soiled paper, and plant waste 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for free. 

The bins are located throughout the five boroughs. They are emptied regularly. The food scraps and yard waste are composted to beautify green spaces across NYC. 

You can use the free NYC Compost app on your smartphone to find and unlock a bin.

Download the NYC Compost app for:

• Android
• iOS

Learn more and find a bin near you.

Report a Problem

You can report a problem with a Smart Composting Bin. 

You can bring your food scraps and plant waste to a drop-off site for composting.

Check the map before dropping off to make sure the site is open and able to accept material.

View the map of food scrap drop-off sites. 

Smart Composting Bins

All food scraps, plant waste, and food-soiled paper are accepted by Smart Composting bins, including:

• Meat
• Bones
• Dairy
• Prepared foods
• Greasy uncoated paper plates and pizza boxes

Food Scrap Drop-Off Sites

Most food scraps are accepted at food scrap drop-off sites, including:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Eggshells
• Coffee grounds
• Tea bags
• Bread
• Rice
• Pasta

Plant waste is also accepted, including:

• Leaves
• Yard waste
• Houseplants

Please note that no meat, bones, or dairy are accepted at food scrap drop-off sites.

Both Smart Composting bins and food scrap drop-off sites do not accept:

• Trash, such as:
  • Diapers
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Animal waste
  • Wrappers
  • Non-paper packaging
  • Foam products
• Metal
• Glass
• Plastic
• Cartons
• Paper
• Cardboard
• Paper bags with glossy coatings
• Plastic shopping bags

Please also note that food scrap drop-off sites do not accept meat, bones, or dairy.