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Leaves Go in Bags - Not Streets

Leaves blown or raked into streets reduce traction for vehicles and clog storm sewers, preventing rain runoff from flowing into street drains. To prevent these undesirable conditions the Public Works Department will implement an administrative fine for blowing or raking leaves and grass clippings into the street. The City Council has approved an ordinance effective immediately that residents, as well as landscape companies, may be fined for placing leaves or grass clippings in city streets.

The fines for violations are as follows:

  • $50 for the first offense
  • $75 for the second offense within the same year
  • $100 for the third offense

Proper Disposal Alternatives

  1. Purchase "Compost It!" paper yard debris bags and place as many bags as you wish on the curb on your regularly scheduled collection day.
  2. Purchase another manufacturer's bag for leaves; however, you will need to buy a $1.00 "Compost It!" sticker and attach it to the bag.
  3. Subscribe to the City's Premium Yard Waste Service and receive a 64-gallon cart for $8.33 per month; a 96-gallong cart is $10.41 per month, with monthly billing in your DSM Water Works bill.
  4. Compost your leaves properly in your back yard.

For information call the Public Works 24-hour Customer Service Center at (515) 283-4950.


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