Annual leaf collection program now underway

The District of Saanich’s annual curbside leaf collection program has begun!

To ensure effective collection, please adhere to below program guidelines.

• This program is for leaf collection only.
• Have leaves ready for the first day of your collection week.
• Place leaves in rows or piles within 1 metre of the road.
• No limit to the number of piles or rows.
• Keep leaves clear of catch basins, sidewalks, bike lanes, and roadways; do not place in ditches.
• Ensure unobstructed access for collectors.

What not to place in curbside leaf piles

These items contaminate the mulch and should go in your organics cart instead:

• Tree needles, acorns, chestnuts, pinecones
• Grass clippings, prunings, garden waste

Other leaf recycling options

• Mulch at home: shred and layer leaves in garden beds or add to your compost.
• Use your organics cart: depending on cart size, you may be able to dispose of leaves in one or two collection cycles.
• Drop off larger loads: bring big piles to the Saanich Public Works Yard, 1040 McKenzie Ave.

Have questions? See our Leaf Program FAQs.

Where your leaves go

Each year, Saanich collects and mulches about 2,500 tonnes of leaves for distribution to local farms, allotment gardens, reuse in our parks and Garry Oak restoration projects.

Free mulch for residents

When available, remaining leaf mulch is offered free of charge, first‑come, first‑served, at:

• PKOLS (Mount Douglas Park)
• Hyacinth Park
• Playfair Park

Learn more

Please visit saanich.ca/leafcollection for more information.