Residents Told to Follow New Leaf Collection Rules

Cranford residents have three chances to make scheduled leaf pickup dates this season.

Residents can still bag their leaves and drop them off at the Conservation Center on 210 Birchwood Ave. at their leisure.

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection released new stormwater regulations that require residents to rake their leaves to the curb for no more than seven days before the scheduled leaf pickup date. Leaves must not be placed within 10 feet of a catch basin or inlet.

These efforts are to limit the amount of leaf debris that collects in storm sewers and waterways, including the Rahway River.

"The Rahway River is a vital source of drinking water, providing over 5 million gallons of water daily to over 26,000 people," according to the Cranford Department of Public Works' website.

Those who fail to abide by these guidelines could be subject to a warning and/or summons.

Residents can also opt to bag their leaves in biodegradable paper bags and place them on the curb, not the street, for collection. Biodegradable bags can be purchased at Home Depot and other shopping centers.

The township committee opted not to provide leaf collection bags for residents after noting a few years ago that it would take up to $70,000, according to public works. 

Click here to find your leaf collection schedule.