"Rats have no place in this city": New York changes garbage rules in battle against rats

New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced changes to New York’s garbage collection on Monday, October 17, in a bid to curb the city’s trash problem and deter rodents.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday afternoon, Mayor Adams said the change was part of an overall strategy between his office and the City Council to address concerns from New York residents and businesses over the cleanliness of city streets.

“Fighting rats is something that we are focused on, as we continue to make this city a livable city,” he said.

According to an official statement, the plan drastically reduces the amount of time that people can leave garbage bags outside before pickup and encourages the use of secured containers for collection.

“This will reduce the amount of time the trash is on the street before collection, keeping our streets cleaner for a longer period of time, and discouraging rodents from running their own version of, what we like to say, open restaurants,” he added.

The plans, which are set to take effect next April, are subject to public comment under the City Administrative Procedure Act. The comment period will be open until November 18, and a public hearing on the proposed rules will be held that morning, according to the statement.

Public comments can be submitted by email, mail, or via the city’s website.

Credit: NYC Mayor's Office via Storyful