The City of Hackensack is taking decisive action to protect its environment and elevate the quality of life across every neighborhood. As part of a comprehensive effort to create a cleaner, safer, and more vibrant community, the City is strengthening enforcement against littering to encourage greater personal and corporate responsibility.

“Keeping Hackensack clean is a shared responsibility that touches every single resident and business in our community,” said Deputy Mayor Agatha Toomey. “Our goal is to build a culture of care and accountability where everyone thinks twice before throwing trash on our streets. When we all take pride in our public spaces, our entire City thrives.”

Under updated Ordinance No. 14-2026, littering violations now incur a $500 fine and a required Municipal Court appearance, with ongoing daily penalties for unaddressed waste.

These enforcement rules apply to all discarded items and materials, including food wrappers, old newspapers, bottles, cigarette butts, yard waste, and construction debris. These measures ensure the City has the tools needed to hold repeat offenders accountable and keep local streets, parks, and sidewalks clean.

This directly supports Hackensack’s broader sustainability initiatives, combining real accountability on the ground with ongoing education and volunteer programs through Hackensack Clean Communities.

“Litter prevention is a true community effort,” said Frank Borrelli, Hackensack Clean Communities Co-Coordinator. “This updated ordinance gives us the tools to hold violators accountable, while our Clean Communities programming continues to educate and empower residents to take ownership of their local environment.”

Residents and local businesses are encouraged to practice responsible waste disposal, participate in upcoming citywide cleanup events, and join the movement toward a cleaner Hackensack. For more information on cleanliness initiatives, visit
hackensack.org.