Mechanical Leaf Collection is a program designed to supplement Yard Waste Collection in those areas identified as having heavy accumulations of leaves. Using specialized equipment, City crews collect leaves stored off the traveled edge of the roadway throughout the program run period.

In Etobicoke, notices will be delivered to all households in the program area advising of their pick up dates. Those that do not receive a notice are not eligible for the program. An ad will also be placed in the Etobicoke Guardian in mid-to late October to illustrate areas that will receive the service.

In Scarborough, ads will be placed in the Scarborough Mirror and Bluffs Monitor to highlight the program.

When will 2009 Mechanical Leaf Collection Program occur?

• Etobicoke/York
  Monday, October 26, to Friday, December 4.
  See street map (PDF) for collection periods.
  You'll need the free Adobe Acrobat reader to view PDF files.

• Scarborough
  Monday, November 2 to Friday, November 27.
  See street list (PDF) for collection periods.

• Toronto & East York
  Informal mechanical leaf collection in place (from roadway only).

• North York
  Informal mechanical leaf collection will not take place.

Note: There will be no leaf collection on Wednesday, November 11.

Preparing for mechanical leaf collection
Please rake all leaves to the edge of, but not on the traveled portion of the roadway a day or two just before the start of your collection weeks, not a week or two in advance. If you see City crews in your area a few days earlier than scheduled, they are just getting a head start on the collection in your area and will return during your scheduled week. Please realize that we cannot control Mother Nature. We can only collect the leaves that have fallen at the time of your scheduled collection. If we do get a snowfall, this will impact the program but, we will resume leaf collection in the communities of Etobicoke and York during the month of April, 2009.

If you are not receiving the service
Please place your leaves at the curb in kraft paper bags or reusable, rigid, open-top containers on your regularly scheduled yard waste collection date.

Composting is still a good idea
The city suggests that, whenever possible, composting is still the best solution for managing your leaves. Composting provides a rich, nutrient-filled material for your lawns and gardens. If you'd like a composter or require more information about composting, see www.toronto.ca/compost.

For more information on leaf collection, call 311.