Marking the autumnal equinox, the Indianapolis Department of Public Works (Indy DPW) today announced this year's leaf collection will begin on Monday, November 9. Residents can leave up to 40 bags of leaves for pick-up per week during the four-week collection period at no additional cost. Leaf collection will conclude on Friday, December 4, 2020.

Leaf collection dates coincide with the time of year when the most leaves are determined to fall from trees.

Here are a few guidelines to follow during leaf collection:

• Place leaves in plastic bags. Paper bags can deteriorate and break apart in wet weather.
• Keep bags at least three feet away from your trash cart for easy pickup.
• Leaf bags should be outside by 7 a.m. on your normal trash day.

While raking leaves, DPW asks that residents clear leaves from storm drain inlets to prevent drainage and flooding problems. Residents are also asked not to rake leaves into the streets, which will cause issues for city street sweepers.

Last year, DPW collected about 4,800 tons of leaves from Marion County residents. As in years past, the collected leaves are taken to the South Side Landfill where they are composted. Residents can pick up the resulting mulch in the spring at no cost.

Residents should also remember that burning leaves is illegal in Marion County as it releases harmful particles into our air.

For more information visit indy.gov/activity/leaf-collection-season.