What is happening to loose leaf pickup?
2025-2026 is the final season for loose leaf collection with the vacuum trucks. In August 2026, Solid Waste Services will begin an enhanced yard waste pickup. Say goodbye to leaf piles lining your street and hello to weekly yard waste pickups.
This year, residents have three options for leaf collection:
- Bag it: Place leaves in your yard waste cart or biodegradable bags on your regular pick up day
- Rake it: Use loose leaf collection for the final season
- Leave it: Leave the leaves for an eco-friendly yard
How do I get rid of my leaves?
You can place the leaves in your yard waste bin or up to 15 biodegradable bags on your regular collection day. Collect them as they fall to keep the amount and workload down.
Where can I get biodegradable bags?
The City is giving bags away at no cost! Stop by one of the locations listed below for a free 5-pack bundle of biodegradable bags:
- Central Operations Facility – 2550 Operations Way
- NERO Location – 3228 Spottswood Street
- Raleigh Municipal Building – 222 W. Hargett Street (4th floor)
Why the change in the loose leaf program?
City Council made the decision to move to enhanced weekly yard waste collection in June 2025. This change will help keep our streets and storm drains clean and clear of leaves and other yard debris. It will also help the City work more efficiently, freeing up crews for other key services.
For more information about leaf collection, please visit the Leaf Collection Options page. If you have additional questions, feel free to contact Solid Waste Services at SWS@raleighnc.gov or 919-996-3245.