LabelYourCan is a project of Primo Cans, the Brooklyn shop that prints address labels for NYC bins. Not a government site.
LabelYourCan A label that outlasts the route

Straight answers

Bin label FAQ

Checked against NYC & DSNY sources · Last checked November 5, 2026

Will a printed label survive rain, snow and power-washing?

That's the whole point of the material. A printed vinyl label with a UV laminate is designed to last 5+ years outdoors - sun, rain, road salt, and the occasional wash. What kills a label early is applying it to a dirty or damp panel, not weather.

Is a permanent marker good enough?

In a pinch, yes - and it's better than nothing. But marker fades in a season of direct sun, smears under washing, and small handwriting is hard to read from the curb or a truck. If you go the marker route, plan on rewriting it every few months.

Can I label my recycling or compost bin too?

Yes - and you should. Those bins must be labeled for what's in them to be collected. Any labeled bin with a lid, 55 gallons or less, qualifies.

Does the city require my home's trash bin to have an address on it?

No. Buildings with 1 to 9 residential units must use the official NYC Bin for trash, but the address on it is not required for those homes. We still think it's the simplest protection against mix-ups and walk-offs - that's why this site exists. Details: rules vs myths.

How many labels does one household need?

One per bin, plus the small 1x4 lid and side labels if you want the bin readable from every angle. Most homes need labels for one or two bins.

What if my labeled bin gets stolen anyway?

Official guidance from NYC 311: file a police report with your local precinct - DSNY does not replace stolen bins. Every NYC Bin also has a serial number, so a photo of the label and the serial number is your proof of ownership. Our sibling site NumberCan explains the serial number.

Do the labels ship outside New York?

Yes. Primo Cans prints to order in Brooklyn and ships anywhere in the US. Get labels.