As fall foliage blankets neighborhoods in Southern Oregon, city officials are issuing an important reminder to residents: sweeping leaves into the street is both illegal and harmful. While the city deploys street sweepers to maintain clean roadways, they will not remove piles of leaves deliberately left in the street. Here’s why this practice is prohibited and what you should do instead.
Street Sweeping Isn’t a Leaf Removal Service
Contrary to popular belief, street sweepers are not designed to handle large accumulations of leaves. When faced with significant leaf build-up, sweepers will bypass the area entirely. This policy is in place to protect the efficiency of street cleaning operations and to avoid damage to equipment.
Leaves left in the street not only impede street sweeper operations but can also create hazards for drivers and pedestrians.
Violations and Enforcement
Sweeping leaves into the street is a violation of the city’s municipal code. Residents caught dumping yard debris onto public streets may face visits from code enforcement officers and potential fines.
To report excessive leaf accumulation impairing the public right of way, the city encourages residents to use their online notification system. By reporting violations, you help maintain the safety and cleanliness of your neighborhood.
Environmental and Flooding Risks
Leaves in the street pose a serious risk to the city’s stormwater system. When leaves collect in storm drains, they create blockages that can result in localized flooding during heavy rains. Flooded streets are a safety hazard and a costly problem for city maintenance crews to address.
To prevent these issues, city officials urge residents to properly dispose of leaves.
Proper Disposal of Leaves
Here are the city’s recommended methods for handling fall leaves responsibly:
- Yard Debris Bins: Most households have green bins designated for yard waste. Use these for leaf disposal.
- Leaf Bags: Purchase biodegradable leaf bags to collect leaves and set them out for your regular refuse hauler.
- Transfer Stations: If you do not subscribe to yard debris collection services, take your leaves to a nearby transfer station for disposal.
Proper disposal not only keeps streets clear but also supports the city’s composting and recycling programs, turning your leaves into useful mulch and soil amendments.
Community Cooperation is Key
Keeping streets clean and storm drains clear is a shared responsibility. Residents are encouraged to take proactive steps to manage their yard debris and to report violations that could endanger public safety or lead to flooding.
For additional information on proper leaf disposal and to report issues with leaves in the street, visit the city’s official website or contact their customer service line. By working together, we can maintain safe and beautiful neighborhoods throughout the fall season.