Leaf and Yard Waste Program

The Spring Leaf & Yard Waste Program will run on the following dates: April 15, 22, 29, and May 6.

The Central Elgin Leaf and Yard Waste Collection Program runs both in the spring and fall for 4 weeks. Collection happens each week on Monday mornings in built up areas of Central Elgin. Bags must be put out by 7am.

All leaves must be in biodegradable paper yard waste bags. No bag tag is required, and plastic bags will not be accepted. For other residents and at other times, Central Elgin residents can take their waste to the Community Recycling Centre located at 330 South Edgeware Road in St. Thomas (fees may apply so please check their website).

Please remember that burning of leaves in built up areas is not permitted at any time of year.

Acceptable Yard Waste
  • Decorative Cornstalks
  • Fallen Fruit from Trees
  • Halloween Pumpkins and Gourds
  • Hedge Trimmings
  • Leaves and Pine Needles
  • Plant and Garden Waste
  • Weeds

Unacceptable Yard Waste
  • Grass Clippings
  • Hay Bales
  • Lawn Aeration Plugs
  • Milled Lumber and Lattice
  • Plastic Bags and Plastic Flower Pots
  • Pressure Treated Wood
  • Rocks
  • Sod, Soil and Clay
  • Tree Stumps

Bundled Brush & Branches

Please place any brush or tree branches in securely tied bundles no larger than 1 metre in length.

Grass Clippings

Central Elgin does not accept grass clippings in any of the waste collection programs. It is recommended that you leave grass clippings on the lawn so they can break down naturally. This is called Grasscycling. This helps return nutrients back into the soil, and reduces the need to fertilize and water your lawn.

Tree Drop Off Program

Get rid of your old Christmas tree in a sustainable way with Central Elgin! We'll be collecting natural trees for reuse in the first two weeks of January at the following drop-off locations:

  • Belmont Arena (14020 Belmont Road)
  • Port Stanley Arena (332 Carlow Road)
  • White Station (42343 Fruit Ridge Line)

Just make sure to remove all decorations, wiring, strands, and plastic from your tree before drop-off. If your tree is longer than 10 feet, please cut it in half.

For the most convenient experience, drop off your tree during regular office hours (Monday-Friday 7am-4:30pm). If you can't make it during those times, you can leave your tree at the following designated areas:

  • Belmont Arena - South west corner of the arena parking lot
  • Port Stanley Arena - South east corner of the arena parking lot beside the storage containers
  • White Station - in front of the Central Elgin rock