The City of Athens Public Works Department has announced that the 2026 Leaf Vacuum Season will officially begin on Monday, November 2, 2026, at 7:00 a.m. Crews will begin collecting loose leaves throughout the city as part of the department’s annual efforts to keep neighborhoods clean and maintain safe roadways and drainage systems.

Residents who wish to take advantage of this service are encouraged to begin placing loose leaves within three to five feet of the roadway as soon as they fall. Proper leaf placement helps crews collect leaves safely and efficiently while minimizing potential hazards for motorists and pedestrians.

Guidelines for Leaf Collection

To ensure a smooth collection process, the Public Works Department reminds residents to follow several important guidelines.

Leaves should not be placed in roadways, drainage ditches, or on sidewalks, as doing so can create traffic hazards, obstruct pedestrian access, and clog storm drains, potentially resulting in flooding.

Residents should also avoid placing leaves around or behind obstacles such as mailboxes, trees, fences, utility poles, yard decorations, and vehicles. Leaf piles located around these objects will not be collected by vacuum crews.

Additionally, leaves should never be placed on water meter lids, sewer caps, manhole covers, or sewer cleanout plugs. Doing so can interfere with utility access and potentially damage leaf vacuum equipment, delaying service to residents.

Understanding the Collection Schedule

Leaf vacuum crews will operate throughout the city using a designated zone system rather than responding to individual collection requests.

Once crews complete collection in one zone, they will move to the next designated area. After all zones have been serviced, crews will begin another round of collection, providing residents with multiple opportunities to have their leaves removed.

While specific street-by-street collection schedules are not available, residents can expect crews to tentatively return to their area every six to eight weeks.

The department anticipates making multiple passes throughout the city during the season. Once crews have completed two full rounds of collection, the City will issue a final notice reminding residents to place any remaining leaves roadside before the season concludes.

Leaf vacuum season typically continues through February, depending on weather conditions.

Where Are Crews Currently Working?

Residents can stay informed about the leaf collection process by visiting the City of Athens Public Works webpage.

Although exact street routes are not published due to changing weather conditions and variations in leaf collection volumes, the City provides updates on the zones where crews are currently operating.

The department also notes that two leaf vacuum machines are now in operation, and collection routes may differ from previous years. These changes are intended to improve efficiency and provide more equitable service throughout the community.

To view collection zones and receive updates, visit www.athenstn.gov/public-works.

Alternative Leaf Disposal Options

For residents seeking an alternative to loose-leaf vacuum collection, the Public Works Department also offers collection of bagged leaves through its biweekly Brush/Junk route.

Residents may also consider mulching fallen leaves using a lawn mower, which can return valuable organic material to the soil and benefit lawn health.

Composting leaves for use in flowerbeds and gardens is another environmentally friendly option that can reduce yard waste while providing nutrients for plants.

Additional Information

The City of Athens Public Works Department appreciates residents’ cooperation and patience throughout the annual leaf vacuum season. By following collection guidelines and keeping leaf piles clear of obstacles, residents can help crews provide safe, timely, and efficient service throughout The Friendly City.

For additional information, questions about collection zones, or assistance with leaf disposal guidelines, residents may contact the City of Athens Public Works Department at 423-744-2745 or visit www.athenstn.gov/public-works.