As the crisp autumn air settles in and trees turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, the beauty of fall also brings a big task: leaf cleanup. Luckily, many towns and cities offer curbside leaf pickup services to make the season more manageable for homeowners. If you’re preparing for fall yard maintenance, here’s what you need to know about curbside leaf collection this fall.

Why Curbside Leaf Pickup Matters

While raking leaves can be a nostalgic fall activity, leaving piles on your lawn can damage the grass, create slippery conditions, and block storm drains. Curbside leaf pickup programs help keep neighborhoods safe, clean, and environmentally friendly by ensuring leaves are collected and composted or recycled properly.

Check Your Town’s Pickup Schedule

Most municipalities set a leaf collection schedule that begins in late October and continues through November. Some towns require leaves to be raked to the curb, while others provide biodegradable paper bags. Be sure to check your local Department of Public Works (DPW) or town website for:

• Pickup start and end dates

• Rules on bagging vs. curb raking

• Restrictions on mixing sticks, grass, or trash with leaves

Tips to Prepare for Curbside Collection

To make the most of your town’s leaf pickup program this fall:

1. Use biodegradable bags – Many towns require leaves to be placed in eco-friendly bags.

2. Avoid blocking sidewalks and storm drains – Keep piles neatly along the curb for easy access.

3. Know the rules on branches – Larger sticks or brush often need to be bundled separately or taken to a recycling center.

4. Rake early and often – Don’t wait for one massive pile; spread the work across several days.

An Eco-Friendly Bonus

The best part about curbside leaf pickup? Most collected leaves are composted, turning into nutrient-rich mulch or soil that can be reused in parks, gardens, and landscaping projects. It’s a simple way to give back to the environment.

Fall cleanup doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With curbside leaf pickup programs, your community is making it easier to keep your property tidy while supporting eco-friendly recycling practices.

So, grab your rake, mark your calendar, and prepare for a smoother fall season!

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