Leaf Collection: Dos and don’ts

• Leaves may not be moved into the street.
  Blowing or placing leaves in the street is prohibited. This practice delays the City’s street-cleaning operations. It can also clog catch basins and cause backups or pooling water. In cold weather, this water can freeze and make streets and sidewalks slippery, increasing the risk of falls for pedestrians.
• Piles of leaves along the street? That’s normal!
  If you notice piles of leaves at street corners, rest assured: they are part of the City’s operations. Crews first gather the leaves, then come back to pick them up as quickly as possible.
• What should you do with your dead leaves?
  Leaves collected on your property must be placed in paper bags or in open containers with handles. Each bag or container must not exceed 20 kg, including its contents. The blue and green bins provided by the City may not be used for this purpose. Small branches must be tied in bundles with natural string.
• Consider leaf mulching.
  You can also leave your leaves on your lawn! Shredded with a lawnmower, they naturally nourish the soil. In your flower beds, they also protect plants over the winter. It’s a simple, economical and eco-friendly practice.
• New rules apply to gas-powered leaf blowers.
  At its October 6 meeting, Municipal Council amended the by-law governing the use of gas-powered leaf blowers. Their use is now permitted only during the months of April, October and November, Monday to Friday, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Outside these periods, their use remains prohibited. To learn more, consult the by-law.

Thank you for helping keep our streets clean and safe!