The City of Boston picks up leaf and yard waste from April to December on scheduled days, according to its Public Works page.
When and where
Curbside leaf and yard waste collection is on the same day as your trash day. If you have two collection days per week, it is on your first collection day of the week. The City’s 2026 schedule says it doesn’t collect curbside on non-scheduled weeks. Place your barrels, bags and branches curbside by 6 a.m.
What goes in what
Use large paper bags or open barrels labeled YARD WASTE with a City issued sticker. Residents can request a yard waste sticker through the 311 Boston portal. Branches must be no more than 3 feet long, 1 inch thick, and tied with a string.
What the City won’t take
Plastic bags, dirt and mulch are not acceptable and will not be collected. Large contractor or landscape barrels and collapsible containers won’t be collected either. Invasive plant material goes in the regular trash. The City does not collect yard waste from buildings with more than 6 units.
Who to ask
For your own collection weeks, use the City’s 2026 yard waste calendar or the Trash Day app. I can’t speak for the City, so check boston.gov for changes.
Questions
Common questions
Can I put Boston leaves out in plastic bags?
No. The City says to use large paper bags or open barrels labeled YARD WASTE with a City issued sticker, and that plastic bags will not be collected.
What time do I put yard waste out in Boston?
boston.gov says to place barrels, bags and branches curbside by 6 a.m.
Does Boston collect yard waste from every building?
No. boston.gov says the City does not collect yard waste from buildings with more than 6 units.
Sources
Written by Diana Yeji Kim — REALTOR® at eXp Realty, serving Greater Boston in English, Korean, and Japanese.
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