Local News
Kankakee, IL Leaf Pickup Begins Oct. 19, Runs Through Dec. 4
Kankakee, IL – Residents across Kankakee will have an opportunity to clear fallen leaves from their properties beginning Monday, Oct. 19, as the city launches its 2026 fall leaf pickup program, contin
By Marcus Hale · 2026-10-17T21:55:38.233Z
Kankakee, IL – Residents across Kankakee will have an opportunity to clear fallen leaves from their properties beginning Monday, Oct. 19, as the city launches its 2026 fall leaf pickup program, continuing through Friday, Dec. 4.
According to the City of Kankakee, municipal crews will collect leaves on residents' regularly scheduled garbage collection days, allowing households to participate without arranging a separate pickup appointment.
However, city officials emphasize that leaves must be properly positioned before crews arrive.
Leaf Collection Begins Monday Residents should place loose leaves in rows along the back of the curb directly in front of their homes.
Leaves placed in alleys will not be vacuumed.
Collection crews cannot wait for residents to move leaves or return after passing a property.
The city also warns that increased leaf volume may delay service. Properties missed during a scheduled collection may be addressed the following week.
Important Rules for Residents Kankakee officials remind residents that several materials and conditions can prevent collection:
Leaves placed in plastic bags will not be collected. Branches must not be mixed with leaves. Litter and other foreign materials must be removed. Leaves blocked by parked vehicles will not be picked up. These restrictions help crews operate collection equipment safely and efficiently.
Alternative Weekly Collection Available Residents seeking guaranteed weekly collection can use biodegradable paper bags or approved yard waste containers.
Republic Services will continue collecting properly prepared yard waste through Tuesday, Dec. 1.
The city's seasonal loose leaf collection program will continue through Friday, Dec. 4.
Residents can review garbage collection schedules and additional leaf pickup information through the City of Kankakee's official website at citykankakee il.gov .
City officials encourage households to prepare early and keep curbside leaf piles clear of vehicles and debris throughout the fall collection period.