City of Milwaukee leaf collection begins Monday, October 15th

MILWAUKEE -- City of Milwaukee residents may start raking leaves into the curb lanes starting Monday, October 1st. City of Milwaukee Department of Public Works (DPW) Sanitation crews will begin collecting the leaves on Monday, October 15th. Leaf collection will end on Friday, November 30th.

Leaves and brush, along with other yard waste, are banned from landfills and must not be placed in garbage or recycling carts.

The 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 in the street
• Keep piles away from sewer grates
• Place garden debris on top of leaf piles
• Do not put leaves in plastic bags
• Do not put leaves in garbage carts
• Do not put brush into the street – call 414-286-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, 16,343 tons of leaves were collected.