Mattresses and Bed Bugs: New Rules

On Tuesday, November 30, 2010, the Department of Sanitation announced new regulations in an effort to help control the growing bed bug problem in New York City. Starting December 3, residents will have to place all bedding (mattresses and box springs) in a completely sealed plastic bag when left at a curb for collection regardless of whether there was bed bug infestation or not.

Sanitation Commissioner John Doherty also suggested that the bedding be placed in plastic bags before it reaches the curb to prevent any bed bugs spreading throughout the house when taking it out.

Failure to comply with the new rule will result in fines starting at $100. The rule goes into effect December 3, but summons won’t begin being issued until January 3, 2011.

The reports of bed bugs have been on the rise within the city in the past few years. According to an April 2010 report released by the Bed Bug Advisory Board (which Council Member Gale A. Brewer initiated), bed bug related 3-1-1 calls rose 54 percent from 2008 to 2009 in the city. The report also said that private residential rental housing bed bug violations rose 240 percent from 2006 to 2009. (as reported by City Council Member Gale Brewer)