Indianapolis Leaf Collection Will Begin November 6

The Indianapolis Department of Public Works will collect bagged leaves Monday, Nov. 6 through Friday, Dec. 1.

DPW says it will remove up to 40 bags of leaves per household each week on regular trash pickup days during the 4-week leaf collection season.

The collection period aims to target the time of year when most leaves fall from trees, and DPW works with Purdue Extension to determine the best time period. 

DPW asks Indianapolis residents to follow a few guidelines:

• Place leaves in plastic waste bags. Paper bags can dissolve or tear in wet weather.
• Leaf bags should be outside by 7 a.m. on each resident’s regular trash day.
• Keep all leaf bags at least 3 feet away from trash carts so trucks can access carts.

Leaves collected this year will be composted at the South Side Landfill, and mulch will be available to residents in the spring for free. DPW workers collected more than 5,000 tons of leaves in 2016.

Other important things to remember this autumn:

• Remember to clear leaves and debris from storm drains to avoid drainage and flooding problems.
• Do not burn leaves. It is illegal in Marion County, and leaf burning creates particles, including dust, soot and other materials, that can contain toxic chemicals.

Find your regular and heavy trash days