HICKORY – The City of Hickory is proud to offer curbside collection of leaves again this season, as one of the many services provided by the Solid Waste Division of Public Works. Each area of the city will receive two rounds of leaf collection during the scheduled period. The duration of service in each area is determined by the number of mature trees and the overall size of the collection zone.
Until the official start date, residents should not rake leaves to the curb. Instead, leaves should be placed in reusable yard waste bags, 32-gallon containers labeled “Yard Waste,” or clear plastic bags for pickup on regular garbage days. Clear plastic bags are available for purchase at City Hall (76 North Center Street) and the Public Services Complex (1441 Ninth Avenue NE). Residents may also request a special leaf collection for a nominal fee by calling 828-323-7500.
Last season, Public Works crews collected more than 8 million pounds of leaves from residential and commercial areas throughout the city. Crews are now preparing for the upcoming season and remain committed to providing timely and efficient service to all residents.
The City of Hickory will begin its annual curbside leaf collection service on Monday, Nov. 10, with operations continuing through Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, per the following schedule:
Northwest A
- Nov. 10–14, 2025
- Dec. 15–19, 2025
- Boundaries: West city limits to North Center Street, north of Norfolk Southern Railroad, and south of 12th Avenue NW, 6th Street NW, and 16th Avenue NW.
Northwest B
- Nov. 17–21, 2025
- Dec. 22–26, 2025
- Boundaries: North of 12th Avenue NW, 6th Street NW, and 16th Avenue NW, and west of North Center Street.
Southeast
- Nov. 24–28, 2025
- Dec. 29, 2025–Jan. 2, 2026
Southwest
- Nov. 24–28, 2025
- Dec. 29, 2025–Jan. 2, 2026
Northeast
- Dec. 1–12, 2025
- Jan. 5–16, 2026
To assist with planning, the City offers an interactive map at www.hickorync.gov/leaf-collection, which allows residents to identify their collection area and view scheduled pickup dates.
As this is a labor-intensive operation, service may be delayed due to inclement weather or staffing limitations. The City will provide updates as needed should the schedule be adjusted.
Solid Waste Manager Andrew Ballentine said, “It is important for residents to follow the ‘Leaf Pickup Tips’ to avoid unnecessary delays and ensure an efficient pickup for all.”
Tips to make leaf collection run smoother throughout the City of Hickory:
- Be careful when driving near leaf collection crews. Safety is a top priority.
- Check your pickup schedule at www.hickorync.gov/leaf-collection.
- Rake leaves to the curb by the first day of your area’s collection. Crews may start in different parts of the area.
- Do not blow or mow leaves into the street. This can cause problems for you and your neighbors.
- Keep leaves away from storm drains and out of the street to help prevent flooding and accidents.
- Never park on top of leaf piles. Hot car parts can start fires.
- Do not mix leaves with trash, sticks, rocks, or other debris. This can damage equipment and delay pickup. Mixed piles may require a special pickup and extra fees.
- Leaves in reusable yard waste bags, 32-gallon containers marked “Yard Waste,” or clear plastic bags are picked up weekly on your garbage day.
- Keep yard waste, leaves, and other debris in separate piles and away from obstacles.
- Mulching leaves and grass clippings in your yard can help your lawn and reduce the need for fertilizers.
The City of Hickory collects leaves and yard waste year-round if placed in the proper containers. These items are picked up weekly on regular garbage days.
For questions regarding garbage, recycling, yard waste, or leaf collection in the City of Hickory, call 828-323-7500