The 2026 Leaf Collection Program typically begins in October. Dates will be posted to this page when they have been determined.

How Does the Leaf Collection Program Work?
Lakeshore Recycling Systems (LRS) will complete a rotation throughout the entire Village with residents required to have their leaves to the curb by 6:00 a.m. on Monday of their scheduled pick up week. The speed of the collection is based on weather conditions such as if a large volume of leaves come down in a short amount of time or if rain or snow occurs, therefore the rotations may take more than a week to complete.  As a result, the Village offers two options for leaf collection: bagged weekly collection or traditional bi-weekly vacuum service.

Leaf Vacuum Schedule:

East of I-94 (Odd weeks) West of I-94 (even weeks)
Week 1: October 13th – October 17th Week 2: October 20th – October 24th
Week 3: October 27th – October 31st Week 4: November 3rd – November 7th
Week 5: November 10th – November 14th Week 6: November 17th – November 21st
Week 7: November 24th – November 28th Week 8: December 1st – December 5th

 *Residents who choose the vacuum service should be aware that leaves may not be vacuumed during the scheduled week if the volume is too large to be collected. In this case, LRS will work to complete that side of town before starting the next side of town.

Vacuum Service Program Rules:

  • Raked leaves should be placed at the curb line by 6am on Monday during the week of pick up.
  • Please do not push leaves directly in the street or sidewalk as this may cause your leaves not to be picked up.
  • Only rake leaves to the curb. Grass, branches and other yard waste are NOT permitted and will damage the equipment.
  • In the event of rain, you should still place your leaves on the curb. Leaves will be collected as soon as possible. 

Bagged Collection:

  • Picked Up Weekly on Regular Garbage Day
  • Unlimited Number of Bags Picked Up
  • Not Impacted by Volume of Leaves or Weather
  • Free Collections throughout the 8 weeks of the Leaf Collection Season

As a friendly reminder, the Village of Gurnee prohibits leaf burning.

leaf-collection

A map of the schedule can be found here

Residents looking for an environmentally friendly option that is also rake-free can consider mulching their leaves, which is beneficial for lawns and gardens. For tips on mulching leaves, check out this video.