Reminder about fall leaves: Bag it, don't blow it

Sept. 23, 2023 - The Hampton Department of Public Works is reminding residents this fall to bag their leaves and grass clippings rather than blowing them into the street.

When yard waste is blown or raked onto the street or sidewalk, it will accumulate in curbs and gutters, leading to poor drainage and some flooding. The debris will eventually make it into our waterways, especially when the leaves and grass are deposited in storm drains.

The city's street sweeping services are designed to collect only leaves that have fallen onto the roadway naturally. The process is disrupted when large amounts of yard debris are blown into the street. Obstructions in the gutters may prevent the sweeper's access and cause the roadway to be bypassed.

Residents can do their part this fall in the following ways:

• Collect yard debris in clear plastic bags, not to exceed 50 pounds per bag. The bags will be collected on your regular trash day.

• Rake leaves into a plant bed for use as mulch or natural fertilizer.

• Use a mulching blade on your mower to return the essential nutrients to your lawn.