Dutch municipalities Almere and Waalwijk begin autumn leaf collection

The municipalities of Almere and Waalwijk have announced the commencement of their seasonal leaf collection programs starting November 2.

In Almere, the city will follow a neighborhood-by-neighborhood schedule through January 1. Residents are no longer required to report fallen leaves unless they create unsafe conditions, such as making bicycle paths slippery or obstructing public roads. The municipality is piloting a new collection method using specialized vehicles, such as a Trilo truck equipped with a large suction hose, to increase efficiency. While leaves will be cleared from paths and roads, they will be left in bushes and plant beds to support soil health and provide habitats for local wildlife.

In Waalwijk, sweeping operations will cover Waalwijk, Waspik, and Sprang-Capelle according to a weekly schedule. The priority is to clear main roads and bicycle paths first to minimize nuisance. The municipality has requested that residents assist by sweeping leaves from municipal trees and shrubs toward the gutter or roadside one day before their scheduled sweeping day, noting that large piles may prevent machines from collecting the debris effectively. A portion of the Hoefsvenlaan parking lot will be temporarily closed until December 30 to facilitate leaf waste storage.