Last Updated on August 18, 2025 by Jeffrey Calderon
NYC Trash Enclosure Permit: Why it’s Essential that Homeowners Need a Revocable Consent Agreement
New York City’s sanitation rules have changed significantly in recent years.
Homeowners are now expected to sort paper, plastics, metal, and — as of the latest regulations — compost. While sorting is one part of compliance, storage is another.
If you’re considering installing a permanent trash enclosure on the sidewalk or any part of the public right-of-way, you can’t just build it and hope for the best. You will need a Revocable Consent Agreement (RCA) from the NYC Department of Transportation — and the process is neither quick nor simple.
NYC Trash Bin Rules: Don’t Get Fined
As of November 12, 2024, if you own a single-family home, duplex, or building with up to 9 units in NYC, your trash must be stored in bins with secure lids—or you risk costly fines.
đźš« No excuses. No bags on the curb. No broken bins.
Here’s what NYC Sanitation requires:
- Bin Size & Condition: Bins must be 55 gallons or smaller, with secure lids, and kept in good condition.
- No Overflow: Lids must close tight. You need enough bins to hold all trash and compost without spillover.
- Fines Are Real: Broken bins, missing lids, or waste spilling out = violations and penalties.
- Recycling Rules: Recycling bins must be clearly labeled. If you bag recyclables, use clear plastic bags only. Cardboard boxes don’t count as bins.
- Non-Compliance = $$$: Fail to follow recycling rules, and you’ll face fines on top of trash violations.
👉 Pro Tip: If your property requires outdoor trash storage, you may also need a NYC Trash Enclosure Permit through a Revocable Consent Agreement. This permit ensures your bins are properly enclosed, compliant, and safe from sanitation violations.
Why NYC Trash Enclosure permit is Necessary
- New composting rules mean more bins and more frequent set-outs.
- Rodent mitigation requirements make proper storage critical.
- Aesthetics & property value — a well-designed enclosure keeps garbage out of sight and can boost curb appeal.
- HOA or block association standards — in some neighborhoods, permanent storage is becoming the norm.
Sanitation Compliance: The Three Waste Streams
Paper & Cardboard
Must be separated, clean, and dry. Often stored in dedicated bins to prevent contamination.
Plastic, Metal & Glass
Collected together but must be rinsed and free of food residue.
Compost / Organic Waste
Now mandatory for all residents, organics require their own lidded bin to prevent odors and pests.
The result: Most single-family homeowners now need at least three separate containers, which makes on-property storage more challenging.
The Public Space Problem
If you don’t have enough room on your property, you might think about placing an enclosure partially or fully on the sidewalk. That’s where the NYC DOT gets involved.
Why is this needed now?
Anything built on the public right-of-way — even if it’s in front of your home — requires City approval through a Revocable Consent Agreement.
What is a Revocable Consent Agreement?
A Revocable Consent Agreement is a formal legal agreement between a property owner and the City that grants permission to install and maintain a structure on public property. It’s called “revocable” because the City can order removal at any time if needed for public use.
The Process (and Why It’s Lengthy)
Getting an RCA is not as simple as filing a one-page form. Here’s what’s typically involved:
Application Preparation
- Site survey & property documents
- Proposed enclosure drawings
- Proof of ownership
These site surveys and enclosure drawings must be formatted specifically for DOT to review, unless you want an instant denial.
Due to the stringent rules of NYC DOT, you’ll need a registered architect to format these drawings on your behalf. All drawings are requierd to be to scale, dimensioned and provide typical details of the enclosure you choose.
Agency Reviews
The DOT will coordinate with other agencies, including:
- Department of Sanitation (DSNY)
- Community Board (Map Tool to Find Your Community Board)
- Landmarks Preservation Commission (when applicable)
Public Review
Your application may require a hearing or community board review. Luckily, the community boards will be on your side during these hearings, as Mayor Adams
Legal Agreement & Recording
Once approved, the RCA is a recorded legal document tied to your property.
Timeline: The process can take 4–6 months from start to finish.
Why You Shouldn’t Go It Alone
Submitting an incomplete application or missing a step can delay your project by months. Many homeowners underestimate:
- The level of design detail required
- The number of agencies involved
- The legal obligations once the RCA is granted
How can we Help?
If you’re considering a trash enclosure that will sit on or over the public right-of-way, start the Revocable Consent process as soon as possible.
At Permits In No Time Inc., we handle the entire process — from application to approval — so you can stay compliant without the stress or delays.
Contact us today to discuss your project and get your RCA application moving.
About the Author
Jeffrey Calderon has worked with contractors for 21 years and has extensive experience with DOT.
