Lawn care
How do I get rid of my leaves in Madison, and when does fall leaf collection happen?
A common question, answered by the MadisonWI.com editors · November 9, 2026
1 answer
From MadisonWI.com
The City of Madison's Streets Division collects leaves curbside each fall. Set-out dates vary by neighborhood, and every neighborhood gets three scheduled set-out opportunities; enter your address on the City's yard waste page to find yours. Collection starts in early fall and runs into late November; the City posts each year's dates. Extra rounds are possible if weather allows, but they aren't promised. Pile leaves at the street edge or on the terrace, never in the street, which is an ordinance violation. Keep piles at least five feet from signs, hydrants, poles, mailboxes, trees and parked cars, and keep brush in a separate pile. Use compostable paper bags, or leave other bags open. Don't put leaves in trash or recycling carts. You can also use the City's drop-off sites, compost at home, or hire a lawn care service. This covers the City of Madison; other towns set their own schedules. Source: City of Madison Streets Division, 2026 Fall Leaf & Yard Waste Collection Begins (checked November 2026).
Written by the MadisonWI.com editors · November 9, 2026