Where to Return Bottles & Cans in NYC: Redemption Centers Guide

New York's Bottle Bill (Returnable Container Act) mandates a 5¢ deposit on most beverage containers. Redemption is handled by DEC-authorized redemption centers—not curbside recycling.

How to Find a Center

• DEC Search Tool: Redemption Center Locator — filter by borough, ZIP, materials accepted.
• Call the Hotline: 1-888-724-9754 (DEC Bottle Bill Hotline).
• Mobile Apps: BottleDrop (NYC-specific), RecycleRight.

Major Chains / Locations (Examples)

• Sure We Can (Bushwick, Brooklyn) — non-profit, community-focused, accepts all.
• Redemption Centers Inc. — multiple Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens locations.
• Key Food / Associated / Met Foodmarkets — many have reverse vending machines (RVMs) or back-room redemption.
• Nathan's / C-Town / Pioneer — often have RVMs.

Rules & Tips

• Eligible: Beer, soda, water, wine coolers, sports drinks (<1L or 1L+). NYS label required.
• Not Eligible: Liquor, wine, milk, juice >1L, dairy, containers >1 gallon.
• Condition: Empty, rinsed, uncrushed, label readable. RVMs reject crushed.
• Limit: Centers can limit to 240 containers/person/day (most don't enforce).
• Hours: Vary widely. Call ahead. Many closed Sundays.

Alternatives

• Curbside Recycling (Blue Bin): No deposit return. Material recycled.
• Donate: Some charities (e.g., Sure We Can) accept drop-offs for their redemption revenue.

Always verify current status via DEC locator or phone—centers open/close frequently.