Leaf and Yard Waste Composting
We pick up leaf and yard waste from April to December on scheduled days and host drop off events throughout the year. Leaf and yard waste is turned into compost, and used throughout the City as soil for community gardens, parks, and schools.
Leaf and yard waste is collected the same day as regular household recycling. If you have two recycling collections per week, your yard waste collection will be on the first recycling day of the week. Check the Trash and Recycling Day app to view your collection schedule.
Leaf and yard waste curbside collection is only available certain weeks. See schedule below.
Leaf and yard waste drop-off events are for Boston residents only. You must provide a photo ID, utility bill, or lease as proof of residency. We will not accept any waste from businesses. We also reserve the right to reject any materials that do not meet our regulations.
-
Have questions? Contact 311:
2024 Leaf and Yard Waste Calendar
Please note that the curbside pick up day for your neighborhood is the same day as your regular household recycling collection day. If you have two recycling collections per week, then yard waste will be collected on the first of the two days.
Translated Leaf and Yard Waste Schedules
Leaf and yard waste tips
- Place your barrels, bags, and branches curbside by 6 a.m.
- Yard waste is collected on the same day as your recycling collection day. If you have two recycling days each week, yard waste collection is on the first recycling day of the week.
- Place leaves and yard debris in large paper bags or open barrels labeled YARD WASTE.
- Never use plastic bags for leaf & yard waste.
- Branches must not be larger than three feet long and one inch thick, and tied with a string.
- Bamboo is accepted, as long as pieces are cut to be less than three feet in length, and tied with a string.
Christmas Tree Collection
We pick up Christmas trees the first two weeks of January to be shredded for compost. Christmas tree collection corresponds with your scheduled recycling collection day. If you have two recycling days, we pick up trees on your first recycling day. Check the Trash and Recycling Day app to find your specific tree collection dates.
Please place your trees on the curb by 6 a.m., without ornaments or lights.
Community Garden Compost Request
Compost made from Boston's leaf and yard waste can be provided to community gardens at no cost. Fill out the request form to receive compost for your community garden.
-
Have questions? Contact 311:
