How To Dispose Of Leaves This Fall In West Orange: 2026 Update

WEST ORANGE, NJ — Need to dispose of some leaves this fall in West Orange? There are some updates that local residents should be aware of in 2026.

Instead of issuing a season-long schedule, the township will be providing weekly updates showing where leaf collection is expected to take place the following week. Collection may be adjusted based on weather and other conditions.

Residents should check the township’s Leaf Collection Map and Street Key to determine which of the four collection zones includes their street. Here’s where to find that info:

• Leaf Collection Zone Map
• Leaf Collection Street Key

The new procedures apply only to township-owned roads. Residents on Essex County roads should follow the county’s leaf collection schedule and guidelines (see details here).

The township also shared some important dates to keep in mind for the 2026 leaf season:

• October 19 to December 6 – Residents and landscapers may place loose leaves in the street. Please know your zone and check the weekly updates before putting leaves out.
• November 2 – Collection begins in Zone 1 and is expected to continue for approximately two weeks before moving sequentially through Zones 2, 3, and 4.

West Orange DPW crews will continue collecting remaining leaves from township streets as needed through Dec. 31.

Prefer to bag your leaves? Collections will take place weekly from Oct. 1 through Dec. 31. To arrange pickup, contact the Department of Public Works at publicworks@westorange.org or 973-325-4067.

>> RELATED: Stop Collecting Leaves This Fall In West Orange, Advocates Say (Here’s Why)

STORM DRAINS

Here are some things that West Orange residents can do to help keep storm drains clear during rainy weather, the township said:

• Keep leaves away from storm drains – Leaf piles must be at least 10 feet from storm drain inlets and catch basins.
• Wait until collection is approaching your zone – Whenever possible, place leaves out within 7 to 10 days of anticipated collection. Leaves left in the roadway for extended periods can block drainage and create safety hazards.
• Leaves only – Do not mix leaves with brush, branches, twigs, grass clippings, trash, or other debris. Mixed piles cannot be collected as part of the leaf collection program.

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