Leaf Disposal and Helpful Tips

Managing falling leaves is an important part of keeping our community clean, safe, and free from localized flooding. Lake Oswego offers several convenient options for leaf disposal, along with simple actions you can take to help protect our stormwater system.

Proper Leaf Disposal Options

Not sure what to do with all the leaves piling up in your yard? You have several options:

• Weekly Yard Debris Pickup: Use your yard debris container provided by Republic Services.
• Recyclable Kraft Bags: For extra leaves, use “Recyclable Kraft” bags (available at most home improvement stores). These can be set out for an additional fee.
• Composting: Turn fallen leaves into nutrient-rich compost for your garden.
• Drop-Off Sites: Leaves and other yard debris can also be taken to designated community locations:
  • Dan Davis Recycling Center, West Linn – 503-655-1928
  • Metro South Transfer Station, Oregon City – 503-234-3000
  • Pacific Land Clearing & Recycling, Oregon City – 503-656-7793
  • S & H Landscaping Supplies, Tualatin – 503-638-1011

Keep Leaves Out of the Street

Leaves may seem harmless, but when piled in the street they clog catch basins, cause flooding, damage street sweeping equipment, and contribute to water pollution.
Lake Oswego City Code prohibits blowing, sweeping, raking, or depositing leaves or debris onto sidewalks or streets. Property owners are also responsible for keeping sidewalks adjacent to their property clear of leaves, ice, snow, and other debris.

Help Prevent Localized Flooding

As leaves fall, storm drains can quickly become blocked. Public Works maintains thousands of drains, but your help makes a significant difference.

With just a rake or broom, you can:

• Clear leaves and debris from the tops of nearby catch basins (but never remove the grate).
• Keep water flowing during heavy rains.
• Reduce localized flooding and help protect stormwater quality.
• Even a small effort helps maintain a functioning drainage system throughout the rainy season.

Why Street Piles of Lives Cause Problems

Big piles of leaves:

• Jam street sweeper equipment
• Slow sweeper operations
• Prevent sweepers from reaching other neighborhoods
• Block storm drains, leading to flooding
• Wash into waterways, harming water quality

Please place leaves in your yard waste bin or compost them—never in the street.

Organize a Community Leaf Clean-Up

Looking for a fun way to connect with your neighbors? Consider organizing a neighborhood leaf collection event!

The City has a limited number of free drop boxes available for community clean-ups through Republic Services. Drop boxes are available on weekends (Friday delivery, Monday pickup).

For more information or to apply: contact Amanda Watson, Sustainability Program Manager, at 503-635-0291, or click here to submit your application online.