Blue Recycling Bins Causing Issues in Berlin Leaf Collection

Leaf collection this week has gone almost without a hitch as routes have been finished in good time and numerous collections have been taken away. But there is one problem – some of the fallen autumn leaves have been left behind.

Members of the Berlin Public Works Department have had to pass by numerous piles of leaves because residents are not placing them in proper biodegradable bags. Instead, the leaves are being left in blue recycling bins and therefore, are not being collected.

“What we’ve seen, our residents are using their blue recycling bins for leaves,” said Lecia Paonessa, Pubic Works Secretary. “It’s unacceptable.”

With collection set to continue through November and into the first week of December, officials are asking residents to take a moment and make sure the leaves are properly bagged. Doing so will not only get them off your lawn, but help beautify the entire community.

Leaf collection will continue the week of Nov. 11 and again the week of Dec. 2. Leaves must be placed in biodegradable leaf bags at the curb prior to your regularly scheduled trash pick-up day during the two remaining weeks.  Plastic bags are not acceptable and the blue recycling bins are not to be used for leaves, Paonessa said. 

“Please keep all leaf bags and leaf containers well away from the regular trash. Yard waste cannot be mixed with the leaves,” Paonessa said. “Do not rake leaves into the gutter. This is a violation of our anti-litter ordinance and subject to a fine.”

Curbside branch removal must be called in and scheduled for pick-up with Trash Away (860-225-1206).  Branches cannot be over 4’ long, no more than 4” diameter, and bundled securely (not weighing more than 60 pounds a bundle).

Those who wish to dispose of leaves on their own may bring them to the drop-off area at 19 Town Farm Lane (off Massirio Drive), Monday through Friday, between the hours of 7:15 a.m. and 3:15 p.m. and extended hours on Saturdays through Nov. 30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

All plastic bags and containers must be emptied and removed from the drop-off area.  The drop-off area will be closed on Thanksgiving Day and Friday, Nov. 29.

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