June 4th, 2025
Brooklyn, New York. When the city started enforcing the new garbage disposal regulations, some building owners began devising unconventional arrangements for their trash bins. The goal? To avoid hiring porter services that would otherwise be responsible for bringing bins to the curb for collection, returning them once the garbage is picked up, and ensuring the surroundings are clean. In the example above, these fences clearly delineate a space where bins are located permanently—on what is technically public sidewalk space. The assumption is that sanitation workers will fetch the bins, empty them, and place them back within the designated area, eliminating the need for any building staff involvement.
From a logistical standpoint, one could argue this setup is efficient. It ensures bins are where they need to be on collection day, reduces missed pickups, and saves building owners the cost of porter services. In a city where labor costs are high and regulations are complex, the appeal of this workaround is understandable.
But there are a few things to consider.
These makeshift bin zones begin to reshape the urban landscape—and not necessarily for the better. Public sidewalks are meant to be shared space, open and accessible for all pedestrians. When that space is carved up for private waste management needs, it invites questions about fairness, aesthetics, and long-term city planning. One concern is purely visual: rows of bins enclosed by low fencing may appear orderly to the building’s management, but they do little to enhance the neighborhood’s appearance. In fact, some might say they contribute to a sense of clutter and disorganization, undermining the very cleanliness goals the city’s updated regulations were intended to promote.
Then there’s the issue of equity. If some buildings take advantage of public space for private benefit, will others follow? And if every block begins installing these sidewalk bin corrals, what will that mean for pedestrian traffic, accessibility, and overall quality of life?
Sanitation workers are not responsible for carefully repositioning bins once collection is complete. In practice, bins are often left scattered or misaligned—sometimes partially blocking sidewalks—and any trash spilled during the pickup process is typically left behind. These leftovers create a messy, unpresentable view of the area, defeating the purpose of the city’s efforts to enhance cleanliness and order.
Fortunately, over time, many of these improvised arrangements have started to disappear—whether due to the DSNY enforcement or a broader shift toward responsible property management. This return of public space to pedestrians is a win for all New Yorkers. It reinforces the importance of clean, accessible streets and the shared responsibility in keeping our city livable. For building owners seeking a compliant and reliable solution, Escaba Group offers professional curbside porter services and exterior cleaning tailored to meet the city’s regulations—so the streets stay clean, and your property stays in good standing.
From a logistical standpoint, one could argue this setup is efficient. It ensures bins are where they need to be on collection day, reduces missed pickups, and saves building owners the cost of porter services. In a city where labor costs are high and regulations are complex, the appeal of this workaround is understandable.