Annual citywide leaf pickup scheduled for Nov. 16-20

By Reader Staff

Sandpoint’s annual citywide leaf pickup is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 16-Friday, Nov. 20, when municipal crews will make a single full pass through each neighborhood to collect leaves placed along the curb line.

According to an announcement from the city, residents should place unbagged leaves in the street next to the curb by Nov. 16 at 7 a.m., when crews will begin their passes through each area one time only — and will not return to areas already served.

To make the collection effort more efficient, the city asks that residents consolidate small piles into one large pile when possible, and place leaves near the curb on the edge of the roadway in a visible, accessible location — that is, not behind or blocked by cars, fences or landscaping.

In addition, don’t place leaves on lawns, sidewalks or planter strips and expect them to be taken away; and keep piles clear of mailboxes, sidewalks, curb ramps, travel lanes, catch basins and areas directly under trees.

The city emphasized that the leaf pickup is for leaves only — no yard waste (including grass, clippings, tree branches or other debris) will be collected, nor will bagged leaves be taken.

Piles containing branches or other material, and/or that are blocked or not visible from the street, will be skipped by crews.

As residents are raking leaves, they are also asked to make sure sidewalks are cleared of leaves as much as possible and trees are trimmed to provide at least seven feet of clearance. 

Those looking for yard waste alternatives are encouraged to use the Colburn and Dufort solid waste facilities, or research at-home composting, with information available at epa.gov/recycle/composting-home.

For more information or to ask questions about the pickup, call 208-263-3407.