Richmond VA > Public Works > Street Sweeping & Leaf Collection

Last Updated: 2017-10-10




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The city has made significant upgrades to the leaf collection service to make it easier to get rid of leaves throughout the city. There are three options for disposal.
Leaf Collection

For those who choose collection by sector, here is the map.

Sector Map

Vacuum


While bagged collection is preferred, there is still an option for vacuum service. Residents requesting vacuum service must fill out a Vacuum Leaf Collection Service Request Form. The form also is available at the DPW main office, on the 7th floor of City Hall. Please carefully follow the instructions and keep in mind only checks and money orders will be accepted as payment for the $30 fee, no cash.

During the 7 day window for which your service is scheduled, you will need to make sure there are no cars parked where vacuum service will take place. If cars are present, the service will not occur.

Q & A

Leaf Bag

  • Q: What type of bags should be used
  • A: Preferably biodegradable/compostable plastic bags to keep the leaves and bags out of landfills, though all types of bags will be collected

  • Q: Will the city provide bags for residents
  • A: Periodically there will be bag giveaways in which residents will be given up to 10 biodegradable plastic bags; however, outside of those events, residents will be responsible for purchasing bags.

  • Q: Where should residents place bagged leaves for collection
  • A: Place them near your supercan, even if it’s in an alley

  • Q: What if there are so many bags it blocks the alley
  • A: It is unlawful to block the alley, sidewalk or thoroughfare, so do not put out a number of bags that will do so at any given time

  • Q: How many bags will be collected and when
  • A: Up to 10 bags will be collected on you trash day weekly

  • Q: What if more than 10 bags are put out
  • A: Using the Sector schedule, if all bags are put out at the start of your sector schedule, they all will be collected per the schedule

  • Q: How soon will leave be vacuumed after payment is remitted
  • A: There is a one week window, however, inclement weather may delay vacuum collection

  • Q: Will elderly and disabled residents be able to receive assistance with leaf removal
  • A: Volunteers may be able to assist through the Neighbor-to-Neighbor program. Please note that this is the pilot year for utilizing volunteers in this capacity and the target areas in which services will be offered are Council Districts 3, 6, 8 and 9. Leaf raking/collection is not guaranteed to those who apply and are eligible, but will be provided as volunteers are available.

  • Q: Is it illegal to not remove leaves
  • A: Yes, it is a class 3 misdemeanor. Learn more about Unlawful Accumulation here.

  • Q: What is the number to call to request vacuum service or get additional information
  • A: Call the Leaf Hotline at 646- LEAF (5323) or e-mail us at LeafProgram@Richmondgov.com

    • Backyard Composting

    Though not a city service, DPW does advocate backyard composting as the most efficient and environmentally sound leaf disposal option.  Contact the Clean City Commission for details.

    Contact Information:

    Dept of Public Works
    City of Richmond
    900 E. Broad St., Suite 704
    Richmond, VA
    23219 USA
    Map It
    Hours: Monday -Friday
    8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
    Customer Care Center: 3-1-1
    or (804)646-7000

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    If you have any questions, please call the City’s Customer Care Center at 3-1-1 or (804) 646-7000

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