The fall season is upon us and with that it is time to think about managing lawns and preparing for the winter season. Mulching of leaves is one of the best practices in managing fall leaves. Home composting is also encouraged for those who are fortunate enough to have the necessary space. For those who choose not mulch or do not have the means to home compost the City of Cedar Falls provides several options to assist with the collection and disposal of fall yard waste. Following are options provided on an annual basis:
- Cedar Falls yard waste carts will be picked up free of charge on Mondays during the months of October and November. Carts will be collected as often as possible from November 5th, through November 16th, 2012.
- Biodegradable paper yard waste bags will be picked up curbside during the weeks of November 5th, through November 16th, 2012. Yard waste bags are no longer available through the City. Biodegradable paper bags must be purchased from area retailers.
- The Transfer Station will accept yard waste on a daily basis. Yard waste will be accepted free of charge during the month of October and November.
Seasonal Compost Facility
This facility is open during the months of October and November for residents to dispose of yard waste and tree trimmings. Hours for the facility are Monday thru Friday 7:30 am – 5:00 pm, and Saturday 8:00 am – 3:00 p.m.
Leaf Vacuum Service
Cedar Falls residents have the option to utilize a “call in” leaf vacuum service. This service is offered during the months of October and November. Residents who are interested in this disposal option should pile their leaves directly behind the curb between the street and sidewalk for collection. Residents must then call the Public Works Department at 273-8629 to request the vacuum service. The cost for this service will be $50 per visit.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the Seasonal Compost Facility for the disposal of yard waste. This site is conveniently located north of the river and across the railroad tracks on East Main Street. Materials processed at this site are recycled for public use as well as for various parks and public works projects.
Those who use yard waste carts are reminded not to overload their carts. The weight limit is 250 pounds. Please do not put dirt, sod, or ashes in the yard waste carts. Remember to place your yard waste cart at the curb by 7:00 a.m. on the day of collection. Yard waste collection goes to a call-in basis beginning December 3, 2012 through April 1, 2013; the fee for this is $7.00 each time the yard waste cart is emptied.
Yard waste bags are to be used as a supplemental collection method during the “free” collection period only. Bags will not be collected any time other than the designated free collection period. The weight limit for paper biodegradable bags is 50 pounds.
Operating hours for the Transfer Station are 7:00 am – 6:00 pm Monday thru Friday, and Saturday, 8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Questions regarding the options for the spring yard waste collection may be directed to the Cedar Falls Public Works Department at 273-8629.