Richmond begins Leaf Collection Program for fall

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Fall has begun, and the city will once again offer its annual Leaf Collection Program beginning on Monday.

According to Richmond Department of Public Works, the program starts on Monday, Oct. 7, and there are different options for leaf collection.

Unlimited bag collection

Residents can opt for unlimited bag collection, where bagged leaves will be collected based on trash collection days. Biodegradable bas are preferred, and collection days are based on the four sectors of the city:

• Sector 1: Wednesday trash collection
  • Bagged leaves will be picked up between Nov. 6 and Nov. 20
• Sector 2: Thursday trash collection
  • Bagged leaves will be picked up between Nov. 21 and Dec. 1
• Sector 3: Monday trash collection
  • Bagged leaves will be picked up between Dec. 3 and Dec. 18
• Sector 4: Tuesday trash collection
  • Bagged leaves will be picked up between Dec. 19 and Dec. 31.

Do-it-yourself option

Residents can also opt for a do-it-yourself option and drop off loose leaves or put them in biodegradable bags at the following locations:

• East Richmond Road Convenience Center at 3800 East Richmond Road
• Maury Street Leaf Drop-off at 2900 Maury Street
• Transfer station at 3506 North Hopkins Road
  • This location only accepts bagged leaves.

Instead, residents can compost or mulch leaves. Compost bins are available for $41.50. Anyone interested in purchasing a bin can email askpublicworks@rva.gov or call 804-646-8325 for information.

Vacuum service option

Vacuum service is a paid option that residents can request. The service is available beginning on Monday, Nov. 4 and the cost is $30 per request, with the payment due prior to service.

To schedule, go to RVA311’s website or call 3-1-1. You can pay through a COR utility account, where $30 will be added to your utility bill, or via mail by sending a check or money order payable to the City of Richmond and mailed to the Department of Public Works, with Attn: Vacuum Service, 900 East Broad Street, Room 704, Richmond, VA 23219.

For this service, payment must be received before collection will be scheduled, leaves must be raked and ready for collection when the request is made, leaves should be raked to the curb or property line, but not into the street or gutters, and sticks, stones or other objects should be removed. Leaves won’t be collected from the alley.

Once payment is confirmed, the department said the service will take place within 15 business days of the paid request, not including city holidays or inclement weather.

Scheduled appointments for leaf collection can’t be accomodated.

Anyone who has not received service within 15 business days of the request — not including holidays — and with no significant weather events should call 3-1-1.

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