Published on January 12, 2026
Providing reliable services to our residents and businesses is a priority. We know this is frustrating and appreciate your continued patience and cooperation as we work through persistent weather impacts to the annual Leaf Collection Program. Our Public Works team closely monitors the forecast and is in regular contact with our contractor to determine the best time to resume and complete leaf collection.
Why the delay? Chicago-area winter weather can change quickly. Rain one day can turn into freezing temperatures overnight. Unfortunately, that kind of unpredictability makes it difficult to schedule a program of this size, which typically takes up to two weeks to complete.
The weather looks good today—so why aren’t crews out?
Leaf collection in St. Charles is a large-scale operation that can’t be completed in just a day or two. To do the job right, we need a consistent stretch of favorable weather that allows us the necessary time (up to 10 days) to complete the collection. Once that window opens, our contractor will be ready to dedicate the necessary crews to complete the program.
How will I know when the program has restarted?
We will post any program updates on:
Can I bag the leaves for collection?
Unfortunately the companies that take yard waste are closed for the season. The final pickup for bagged leaves occurred on December 30. Collection of bagged leaves and yard waste will resume in April and will require a sticker.