Fall Leaf Collection

City of Milwaukee residents may rake leaves into the street from October 1 through November 15. 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 the week of October 16th. Once leaf rake out ends on November 15, 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 after the deadline will not be collected. Residents can:

• Mulch the leaves into the lawn
• Bring the leaves to a Drop Off Center

Residents should rake their leaves into the curb lanes for collection to be composted to make a rich soil amendment. Sanitation Services offers these tips for successful leaf collections:

• 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.
• Keep piles away from sewer grates, storm drains, and low hanging trees.
• Include yard debris such as flowers, garden trimmings, and weeds on top of leaf piles.
• Do not include grass clippings, pumpkins, litter, or bagged material.
• Do not put brush in the leaf piles. Keep brush separate and located between the curb and sidewalk. Call 286-CITY or request a brush collection online.

At all other times of the year, leaves must be mulched on the property or taken to a Drop Off Center.