Index

Food Donation and Food Scraps Recycling Law

Summary

Businesses generating an average of 2 tons of food scraps per week must donate excess edible food and recycle all remaining scraps if a recycler is within 25 miles.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    Small businesses producing less than 2 tons of waste per week are exempt.
  • 02.
    Businesses can apply for a one-year hardship waiver if recycling costs exceed 10% of their waste disposal cost.

Penalties

  • 01.
    Civil penalties of up to $1,000 for the first violation and up to $2,500 for subsequent violations.

Verified Citations

NYS ECL Article 27, Title 22

Source
"Designated food scrap generators shall separate their excess edible food for donation for human consumption to the maximum extent practicable."