Leaf Collection Options

Weekly yard waste pickup starts in September 2026

The way Raleigh collects leaves is changing. Beginning on September 8, 2026, loose-leaf collection will be replaced with weekly yard waste pickup. This enhanced service will make things more consistent and reliable for residents like you!

New Options for Managing Your Leaves

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Use your yard waste bin

  • Place leaves in your yard waste cart or up to 15 biodegradable bags.
  • Order an additional cart online or by calling 919-996-3245.
  • Weekly pickup begins in September, but you can start using this biweekly option now.

Utilize biodegradable bags

  • Place any leaves that don’t fit in your yard waste cart in biodegradable bags.
  • You can place up to 15 additional bags on the curb next to your cart(s) and up to 5 bundles of sticks or twigs.
  • Biodegradable yard waste bags can be purchased at your local hardware, lawn and garden, or big box stores.

Leave the leaves

  • Skip collection and let leaves stay on your property.
  • Mulch them into your lawn, rake into garden beds, or compost at home.
  • A simple, eco-friendly way to return nutrients to the soil.

How Will You Get Rid of Your Leaves in the Fall?

  • Place loose leaves in your yard waste bin with up to 15 biodegradable bags at your curb for collection. You can also order an additional yard waste bin. Residents can contact the Customer Support Center at 919-996-3245 or use the online web form to initiate the cart request.
  • Weekly yard pickups make maintaining your yard easy, all season long!
  • Consider leaving your leaves. Mulch leaves into your lawn, blow them into garden beds, or compost at home. This is a simple, eco-friendly way to return nutrients to the soil. 

Why the Change?

  • Cleaner streets, bike lanes, sidewalks, and storm drains. Say goodbye to leaf piles lining your street.
  • More reliable service. Say hello to consistent, weekly yard waste pickups.

What's Next?

Spring 2026: Get Ready

  • Learn about the switch from loose-leaf collection to weekly yard waste pickup.
  • Start using your yard waste cart or biodegradable bags now to get a head start. Bags can be purchased at your local hardware, lawn and garden, or big box store. 
  • Watch for emails, app notifications, community outreach and social media updates with tips and reminders.

September 8, 2026: New Weekly Yard Waste Service Begins

  • Weekly pickup replaces seasonal loose-leaf collection.
  • Place leaves, grass clippings, and other yard waste in your cart or in biodegradable bags for pickup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Questions? Please see our Leaf Collection FAQ page.

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