Division of Public Works Announces Leaf Collection Changes

The has devised a new schedule for leaf pickup this fall with the hopes of streamlining the process.

The DPW will begin fall leaf pickup during the week of Oct. 17. Residents are asked to have leaves raked out to the terrace area, the area between the sidewalk and curb/road edge or within 6 feet of the road edge) by 7 a.m. on the Monday of their designated pickup weeks.

Designated pickup weeks are as follows: Aldermanic District 1, 4 and 5 – Oct. 17, Oct. 31 and Nov. 14; Aldermanic District 2 and 3 – Oct. 24, Nov. 7 and Nov. 21.

Leaves can be placed out for pickup beginning the week of Oct. 10. Residents are asked to keep leaves away from catch basins to prevent street flooding.

Residents of districts 1, 4 and 5 should not put leaves in the street after Nov. 14. Residents of districts 3 and 4 should not put leaves in the street after Nov. 21. If you still have leaves to dispose of after pickups are concluded, you may bring them to the DPW building.

Inclement weather, particularly snow, could postpone or suspend leaf pickup because the same trucks used to pick up leave are used to plow city streets.

The DPW service is for leaves only. Other yard waste materials are picked up by Veolia on the same days as recyclables through Nov. 18, 2011.

The DPW will not pick up leaves if they: 

• have any other materials such as branches, stones or grass clippings mixed in. These materials can clog or damage the leaf loader or leaf vacuum resulting in costly and time-consuming repairs.
• Are blocked by parked cars or other obstacles
• Are placed too far from the road edge or curb. The vacuum hose only allows crews to reach 6 feet.
• Are left in an alley or on a median.

Residents can also drop off leaves free of charge at the DPW building in bins on the south side of the building. Leaves must be in a biodegradable paper bag or emptied from containers.

Residents are strongly encouraged to mulch leaves. According to the DPW, the department collected more than 3,600 tons of leaves in 2010, resulting in an average of 35 work days devoted by the department to the task. In addition, more than 3,000 gallons of fuel are used every year for the collection of leaves, and the department expects to cover 372 miles of road this fall.

For more information call 414-761-5374.