Leaf Collection Reminder: Must Be Placed Curbside

Looking to get rid of that remaining carpet of leaves this autumn? Here's how.

The Lower Merion Township Refuse and Recycling Division is reminding citizens that leaves and yard waste are collected at curbside only on customer's regular trash collection day. If for any reason crews are unable to collect the leaves on the regular collection day, they will do at the end of the next day's collection route.

When disposing of leaves, place no more than 50 pounds of leaves only (no soil, no rocks or apples) in biodegradable paper bags. Though some plastic bags may be recyclable, they are not acceptable for leaf collection. "The appropriate biodegradable bags can be purchased at the Township's Public Works Complex as well as at area hardware stores," remarked Joe Przybyszewski, Refuse and Recycling Supervisor. The cost is typically 47 cents (plus tax) for 40 gallon bags.

It is also important that leaves are not raked into the street; doing so can block storm sewers, contributing to flooding, create roadway hazards and interfere with street cleaning. Residents or contractors who rake leaves into the street face fines. Burning of leaves is strictly prohibited in Lower Merion Township. For more information on refuse and recycling, contact (610) 667-1952.