New York § 52-E - 52-EPenalties for littering
Full text of New York New York Consolidated Laws § 52-E — 52-EPenalties for littering, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 52-E. 52-EPenalties for littering
§ 52-e. Penalties for littering. 1. No person shall throw, dump, or cause to be thrown, dumped, deposited or placed upon any railroad or subway tracks, or within the limits of the right of way of any railroad or subway, any refuse, trash, garbage, rubbish, litter or any nauseous or offensive matter. For purposes of this section, the term "subway" shall mean all rail rapid transit systems operated by the New York city transit authority including but not limited to track and track beds, passenger stations, tunnels, elevated structures, yards, depots and shops. 2. Where a highway or road lies in whole or part within a railroad right of way, nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting the use in a reasonable manner of ashes, sand, salt or other material for the purpose of reducing the hazard of, or providing traction on snow, ice or sleet situated on such highway or road. 3. A violation of the provisions of subdivision one of this section shall be punishable by a fine not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars and/or a requirement to perform services for a public or not-for-profit corporation, association, institution or agency not to exceed eight hours and for any second or subsequent violation by a fine not to exceed five hundred dollars and/or a requirement to perform services for a public or not-for-profit corporation, association, institution or agency not to exceed eight hours. 4. Fines collected pursuant to subdivision three of this section on subway tracks or subway rights-of-way shall be deposited to the credit of the New York subway littering prevention fund established pursuant to section ninety-seven-uuu of the state finance law, and shall be used by the New York city transit authority to post signs notifying the public of the maximum fine for a violation of subdivision one of this section.
Source: official New York text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About New York § 52-E
What does New York Consolidated Laws § 52-E cover?
Section 52-E ("52-EPenalties for littering") is part of the New York Consolidated Laws, the codified statutory law of New York. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite New York § 52-E?
A common citation format is "New York Consolidated Laws § 52-E" (New York). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of New York law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New York official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New York attorney.
How does New York § 52-E apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New York can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in New York.