As fall progresses and trees shed their leaves, the Town has announced that the loose leaf collection season will begin on November 3. Public Utilities Director John Fox reminded residents to keep leaf piles away from water meters, noting that covering the meters can interfere with antenna signals used to record water usage. John Fox explains, "Avoid placing leaf piles on or near water meters. Doing so can block the meter’s antenna signal, and leaf collection equipment could accidentally vacuum off the meter lid, causing damage to your water meter or related equipment," according to a statement released by the Town of Collierville.
The season, stretching from November 3 to February 26, aligns with the regular waste pick-up schedule, albeit with potential lags due to high leaf volume or problematic weather. The Town emphasized that only leaves should be placed curbside for collection—no pine needles, sticks, or other debris. Residents are also reminded to avoid placing leaf piles near mailboxes, fire hydrants, or light poles, as doing so could cause damage to property or interfere with leaf removal equipment.
Should residents neglect these guidelines and their water meter takes a hit, they could shoulder repair costs up to $300, a needless financial sting during times where every dollar seems to be accounted for. To avoid such pitfalls, leaf piles should dwell no more than 5 feet from the curb. This organized approach ensures collection is efficient, with the added directive to be mindful of streets and storm drains, keeping those conduits free of vegetative clutter, as per the town's announcement.
Following collection, the gathered leaves will be converted into compost. Residents interested in sustainable practices can pick up free compost on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Solid Waste Transfer Station, 476 East South Street.
