Leaf Collection

Off-Season Leaf Removal

The 2017 Seasonal Leaf Collection & Rake Out Period has ended. Crews have completed their final collection cycle so new leaves may not be raked into the street.

Leaves may be taken to a Drop-Off Center location. Please refer to our Drop-Off Centers for locations and hours of operations. Brush can also be taken to one of the City's Drop-Off Centers.

What happens to my leaves?

Leaves are taken to the Waste Management compost site where Purple Cow Organics manages the material for 4 - 6 months to create a rich compost. Compost is then sold locally. Compost is a natural fertilizer that returns nutrients to the soil, improves its ability to absorb rain water, and keeps valuable resources out of the landfill.

Leaf Mulching

Easier than raking, consider mulching leaves in place. This returns the nutrients right to your soil. Leaves can also be composted in your backyard.

Fall Leaf Collection

City of Milwaukee residents may rake leaves into the street from October 1 through November 26. After November 26, Sanitation crews will still pick up remaining leaf piles as long as weather permits. Leaves collected are composted to make a rich soil amendment.

picture of fall leaf collection with equipment

Residents should rake their leaves into the curb lanes for collection. Sanitation Services offers these tips for successful leaf collections:

Do not put leaves in plastic bags - empty them into the curb lane. Leaves are composted but plastic bags do not decompose
Do not put brush in the leaf piles. Keep these items separate between the curb and sidewalk. Call 286-CITY or request a brush collection online.
Keep piles 1' into the street, away from the curb. This helps ensure the equipment can collect all of the leaves and protects the equipment from being damaged and helps prevent flooding by allowing storm water to move to the storm drains.
Keep piles away from sewer grates, storm drains, and low hanging trees.
Include yard debris such as flowers and plants on top of leaf piles
Do not include pumpkins, plastic bags, or any other items.