Des Plaines Will Start Curbside Leaf Collection Soon
Residents can prepare for annual leaf removal beginning October 19, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Landscaping
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The city of Des Plaines will begin its annual bulk curbside leaf collection program on October 19, 2026. This service is separate from regular weekly trash pickups managed by LRS.
Why it matters
Organizing yard waste according to city requirements ensures efficient removal from neighborhood streets and prevents drainage issues. Following these specific guidelines helps maintain local sanitation standards throughout the fall season.
Leaves must be placed in a continuous row exactly one foot from the curb, or in the parkway for major streets like Golf, Oakton, Dempster, River, and Northwest Highway. Residents must have materials ready by 6 a.m. on their scheduled collection day.
The players
Des Plaines Public Works
This municipal department manages essential city services, including the maintenance of local roads and the coordination of the annual seasonal yard waste program.
LRS
This private waste-management company provides weekly trash and recycling collection services for residents of the city.
The details
To participate, residents should rake leaves into a continuous row one foot away from the curb. On major thoroughfares, including Golf, Oakton, Dempster, River, and Northwest Highway, leaves must be placed in the parkway. This program operates independently of weekly LRS trash services, though residents may alternatively bring yard waste directly to the Public Works facility located at 1111 Joseph J. Schwab Road.
Timeline
October 19, 2026, marks the start of the leaf collection program.
Residents must have leaves ready by 6 a.m. on their scheduled day.
Drop-offs at Public Works are available 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The Home Front
Municipal leaf collection programs serve as a standardized approach to managing organic waste volumes that exceed typical weekly bin capacities. These services align with regional environmental maintenance trends to reduce curb-clutter and support proper stormwater drainage.
Ensure your leaves are raked into a continuous row one foot from the curb before 6 a.m. on your designated collection morning. If your schedule does not allow for curbside pickup, you may drop off leaves at the Public Works facility located at 1111 Joseph J. Schwab Road.
The takeaway
Consistent leaf removal helps prevent neighborhood drainage blockages throughout the autumn months. Check the city leaf-collection guidelines and maps to confirm your specific collection route and schedule.
Further reading
For more tips on maintaining your yard, check out our Landscaping section.
More information
View the complete city leaf-collection guidelines and maps for detailed information.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Journal Online.
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