UPDATE 11-7-2025
Leaf Collection Update
The short version:
Our 1996 leaf vacuum suffered a major mechanical failure at the end of October. It is currently being professionally repaired and is expected back next week. In the meantime, please bag leaves in clear bags so we can stay ahead of the weather and reduce flooding risks.
What actually happened:
The vacuum is nearly 30 years old and has handled an enormous workload in Lawrence Park. This year, the clutch that connects the engine to the fan (the part that creates suction) failed completely. Our crew tried temporary repairs immediately, but the vacuum must be lifted out with a crane to access the damaged components. We transported it to a diesel mechanic the same day. Repairs are underway using funds already appropriated for maintenance.
Why this matters right now:
We’ve had a very wet fall. When leaves are placed or pushed into the street, they wash directly into storm drains and cause flooding—something we have already seen several times this season. Leaves in the street are also prohibited under Township ordinance for this reason.
Until the vacuum returns, we are asking residents to:
✅ Bag leaves in clear bags
✅ Keep leaves out of the street at all times
✅ Place bagged leaves at the curb for morning pickup
Public Works has been collecting bagged leaves every day and will continue daily pickup until the machine is back.
A note about regular leaf machine limitations:
Even when it is running, the vacuum must be trailered behind our large dump truck and moves very slowly. It also fills quickly—on a typical day, it must be emptied about three times, and each trip to the dump site takes roughly an hour. As a result, even in a “good year,” it takes about a full week for our crew to make one complete pass through the Township.
Long-term plan:
It is clear that the current machine is past its useful life. This summer, the Township applied for grant funding to purchase a new, modern leaf machine. A hearing on those applications is scheduled for November 18th, and we expect to know shortly afterward whether we were approved.
We understand this is frustrating.
No one enjoys disruptions during leaf season—myself included. Our goal is to keep residents informed, stay ahead of the weather, minimize flooding, and support staff who are doing everything possible with the equipment we have. We will update everyone as soon as anything changes.
Thank you for your patience, cooperation, and for helping us protect the Township’s streets and stormwater system during this stretch of difficult weather.
If you have any questions, please call or email the Township Office.
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Lawrence Park’s 2025 Leaf Season will begin on October 13 and continue until consistent snowfall (approximately the end of November). Each year, we receive many questions about leaf pickup, so we want to provide helpful information and reminders for residents.
WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR LEAVES:
- 1. Bag them in clear plastic bags and place them near the curb. Township employees pick up these bags daily and take them to Harborcreek’s leaf drop-off site. Harborcreek policy requires Township staff to cut open the plastic bags and take the bags with us. Therefore, leaf bags may only contain leaves, no yard waste, sticks, rocks, dog waste, or other debris. This is the preferred method as it is the fastest and simplest for residents and Township staff alike.
2. Rake leaves to the curb for collection by the leaf machine.
The leaf machine collects and transports leaves to the drop-off site, but it is slow and fills quickly due to the large volume of leaves in the Township. It may take several days for staff to reach your street, but we will get there. Each time the machine fills, staff must haul it to Harborcreek, unload, and return to continue collection.
3. Take leaves directly to Harborcreek’s drop-off site.
If you choose this option, you must cut open your bags, dump the leaves in the designated area, and take the empty bags home. Do not leave plastic bags at the site.
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OTHER YARD DEBRIS
Debris such as twigs, branches, acorns, and similar material can be placed in receptacles at the curb on your regular trash day. Pro Waste will collect these items. Do not put leaves in these containers—Pro Waste will not accept them because leaves are not permitted in the landfill.
IMPORTANT REMINDER
Per Ordinance 668.01(a), residents may not blow, rake, or place any yard debris or other material into storm sewers. Doing so clogs drains, causes flooding, contributes to harmful algae blooms in the lake, and creates hazardous conditions for cars, motorcycles, cyclists, and runners.