The Complete Guide to Fall Leaf and Yard Waste Disposal in Toronto

Every fall, Toronto homeowners face the same challenge — what to do with all those bags of leaves, branches, and debris. Between Etobicoke, York, and North York, yard waste collection rules can vary slightly, and missing pickup weeks can leave your yard messy for months. Here’s how to stay organized and keep your property clean.

11/14/20251 min read

Understanding Toronto Yard Waste Rules

The City of Toronto collects yard waste every two weeks in most neighborhoods from April through mid-December. After that, homeowners must compost, mulch, or dispose of it privately. Accepted items include leaves, branches (under 7.5 cm thick), grass clippings, and garden waste.
Check your Toronto yard waste schedule to see pickup dates for your postal code.

The Right Way to Prepare Yard Waste

  • Use kraft paper bags — no plastic.

  • Cut branches to under 1.2 meters long.

  • Bundle sticks with twine, not tape.

  • Keep bags under 20 kg each.

Improperly prepared waste won’t be collected, which is a common frustration for busy homeowners in Etobicoke and York.

When You Have Too Much Yard Waste

After a big leaf fall or tree trimming, city collection limits might not be enough. That’s where a professional fall cleanup and haul-away service helps. At Oasis Lawns, we collect, bag, and dispose of all leaves, branches, and garden waste responsibly — saving you the trip to the depot.

Go Eco-Friendly

We compost yard debris, recycle usable materials, and minimize landfill waste. It’s an approach that matches Toronto’s sustainability goals while keeping your property spotless.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Once snow arrives, yard waste collection ends. Get ahead of it by booking your fall cleanup with Oasis Lawns before mid-November. Reserve your cleanup today and enjoy a clean, winter-ready yard.