KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Keene’s annual fall leaf collection program will get underway on Monday, Nov. 3, with Public Works crews beginning their rounds in the first scheduled section of city streets, according to the department’s announcement this week.

While the collection starts on that date, there is no set daily route. City officials urge residents to have their leaves raked to the edge of their lawns by the date listed for their section to ensure pickup. That date marks when crews may begin work in each area—not the exact day of pickup.

As long as crews haven’t yet passed by, residents may continue adding leaves to their piles. But once a street has been cleared, there’s no guarantee that trucks will make a second trip, the city cautioned.

Public Works also reminded homeowners not to rake leaves into the street, which is prohibited by city ordinance and can result in a citation. Leaves must be left loose—not bagged—along the grass strip between the road and sidewalk, or at the edge of the property if no sidewalk exists. Only leaves and pine needles will be collected; branches and brush should be kept separate to avoid damaging city equipment and delaying the schedule.

Residents are asked to keep storm drains clear of leaves and debris, especially near storm water basins marked with yellow fish symbols. Doing so helps prevent street flooding and ensures proper drainage during autumn rains.

Once crews have finished leaf pickup and cleared storm drains in a neighborhood, residents should avoid raking more leaves to the curb. Those who miss the curbside collection can drop off leaves free of charge at the Keene Recycling Center and Transfer Station, located at 55 Old Summit Road, off Route 12 North. The center is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Private roads and streets without city drainage systems are not included in the program.

For questions, residents can contact the Keene Public Works Department at (603) 352-6550.

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