Loose leaf collection

Loose leaf collection has ended for the 2018 season. Check back in fall 2019 for updated information on next year's start date.

Waterloo residents have two options for curbside leaf collection in the fall:

  • bags leaves for the Region of Waterloo's bi-weekly yard waste service
  • rake street tree leaves onto the edge of the road for our loose leaf collection service (according to your zone for projected pickup date)

Find your collection zone

  • use the search box in the top left corner of the map to find an address within the city or click on the map to find your collection zone
  • progress map will be updated daily throughout the program

How collection works

  1. In fall we set a collection start date. Residents are notified through social media, print ads and signs.
  2. Check the map above to locate your zone and scheduled leaf collection date.
  3. Rake leaves to the curb by 7:00 a.m. on the first day of your scheduled pick-up. We only pick up loose leaves. Do not put sticks or non-leaf material in piles.
  4. Weather permitting, crews will visit zones at least once.
  5. Once all leaves are collected or there is consistently freezing weather the program will end

Cold temperatures and snowfall

Heavy snow fall in combination with continual freezing temperatures ends the leaf collection program. 

Our staff monitor the weather and often continue leaf collection once cold weather has subsided, however the trucks that collect leaves are the same trucks that clear snow.

If the leaf collection hasn't come to your area yet, we make every effort to do so. If cold weather persists and your leaves freeze, our staff are prepared to clear your leaves. 

Missed leaf collection

If you miss your leaf collection date you can bag your leaves and set them out for regional yard waste collection.

If you miss the Region's yard waste collection dates, you can deliver your leaves to the landfill during their operations hours. 

The City of Waterloo is a recognized Bee City and bees use natural mulch as a habitat. Consider using your leaves as mulch or compost on your property. 

Unable to rake leaves to street

If you are unable to rake laves to the street yourself Home Support Services may be able to assist. Contact 519-579-6930 for eligibility and fees.

Streets that border Kitchener

The City of Kitchener provides leaf collection service on the following border streets:

  • Avondale Avenue from city limit to John Street West
  • Aberdeen Road from city limit to Forsyth Drive
  • Belmont Avenue from city limit to John Street West
  • Dunbar Road from city limit to John Street West 
  • Esson Street from city limit to John Street West 
  • Hartwood Avenue from city limit to Weber Street South
  • Margaret Avenue from city limit to Union Street East
  • Mary Street from city limit to Union Street East
  • Pinewood Place
  • Severn Street from city limit John Street West