Leaf Raking Reminder

Milwaukee residents have four more weekends to clear their leaves!

City of Milwaukee residents have until Sunday, November 15, 2015 to rake their leaves into the curb lanes for pick-up by the Department of Public Works (DPW). DPW Sanitation crews currently are collecting leaves and will make one last sweep of all City neighborhoods after November 15, concluding leaf pick-up on Wednesday, November 25.

Another important reminder: Do not put leaves in plastic bags to place at the curb. Simply rake your leaves into the curb lane. One exception: Compostable bags are good to use, but make sure the bags you use are compostable!

Leaves and brush, along with other yard waste, are banned from landfills and must not be placed in garbage or recycling carts. DPW collects leaves, brush and yard waste separately from garbage and composts it, which conserves natural resources while saving the City money. Residents are also encouraged to mulch leaves, and leave grass clippings on the lawn. This saves time and money, and adds nutrients to the soil.

Tips for a successful fall leaf collection:

  • Keep leaves away from storm drains and sewer grates in the street
  • Do not put leaves in plastic bags; compostable bags are OK
  • Do not put leaves in garbage carts
  • Place garden debris on top of leaf piles
  • Pumpkins – Please compost them or place them in your garbage cart
  • Do not put brush into the street – call 286-CITY (2489) through November for a pick-up

Sanitation staff collects an average of 15,000 tons of leaves each year between mid-October and the first week of December. Last year 15,360 tons of leaves were collected.

For more information, please call (414) 286-CITY or go to the DPW website: www.city.milwaukee.gov/mpw.