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Pictures of Sanitation at Work

Fall Leaf Collection

A special spring leaf rake out collection cycle was completed as this year's leaf collection was impacted by an early heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and frequent snow and ice control response events. Leaves were required to be set out by March 15th to ensure collection. Leaves not raked out by March 15th can be bagged for collection during Project Clean and Green or brought to a Drop Off Center at no charge.

City of Milwaukee residents may rake leaves into the street from October 1 through November 15 (MCO 79-11). Fall 2026, residents will also have the option of bagged leaf collection. No special request for leaf collection is necessary until we have completed collection of the route after leaf rake out. Leaf collection operations cycle through the city systematically beginning mid-October. Once leaf rake out ends, DPW makes one final collection sweep across the City. To be collected, ensure that leaves have been raked out by the leaf rake out deadline. Leaves raked out/set out after the deadline will not be collected.

Sanitation Services offers these tips:

  • Save the time raking or bagging leaves; mulch leaves into your lawn for a free, nutrient-rich fertilizer. 
  • Keep piles away from sewer grates, storm drains, and low hanging trees.
  • Rake leaves loose into the curb lane. Leave a one foot gap between the leaves and the curb.
    • The 1' gap 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.
  • Include yard debris such as flowers, garden trimmings, and weeds on top of leaf piles.
  • Do not include grass clippings, pumpkins, or litter.
  • Leaves collected by the City are composted, do not use plastic bags.
  • Do not put brush in the leaf piles. Keep brush separate and located between the curb and sidewalk. Call 414 286-CITY or request a brush collection online.

If you missed the leaf rake out deadline leaves can be brought to a Drop Off Center for no charge or bag for collection during Project Clean and Green.  

Off-Season Leaf Removal

Leaves may be taken to a Drop Off Center location. Please refer to our Drop Off Centers for locations and hours of operations. 

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.

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.

photo of leaves set out properly