Bloomington to Begin Fall Leaf Collection October 19

The annual collection program for leaves and yard waste will run through the end of December for all local residents.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Landscaping

Bold vector editorial illustration of a brown yard waste bag filled with autumn leaves on a suburban curb. — The City of Bloomington will begin its annual fall leaf collection on October 19, with services running through the end of December. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you feel satisfied with the current leaf collection schedule in your community?

The City of Bloomington will begin its annual fall leaf collection on October 19, 2026. This service will remain available to residents until the program concludes on December 30, 2026.

Why it matters

The program provides a systematic way for residents to manage seasonal yard debris disposal through the city's established sanitation schedule. Proper participation ensures that waste is processed efficiently as leaves fall throughout the autumn months.

Residents must ensure that all yard waste containers weigh less than 40 pounds for pickup. City-issued green-lid yard waste carts are available for purchase at a cost of $70.

The players

City of Bloomington

This local government entity manages municipal services, including the Sanitation Department that oversees waste and leaf collection for the community.

The details

Crews will collect leaves based on the regular A and B week yard waste schedules. Residents are required to place leaves in brown paper yard waste bags, handled trash cans, or city-issued green-lid carts, keeping the waste separate from regular trash and recycling.

October 19, 2026: Fall leaf collection begins
December 30, 2026: Fall leaf collection ends

Culture Shift

This program aligns with the broader move toward municipal waste management, following the precedent set by the Clean Air Act's open burning restrictions. By offering structured collection, the city provides an alternative to backyard leaf incineration that supports local environmental standards.

Residents should ensure that brown paper bags remain untaped and that all containers do not exceed the 40-pound weight limit. Properly sorting these materials helps avoid service delays during the A and B week pickup cycles.

The takeaway

Sorting yard waste correctly into approved containers allows for a seamless pickup process throughout the season. Residents should note that the Sanitation Department is available at 812-349-3443 for questions regarding their specific collection route.