It is leaf season! And, while they’re beautiful, they can be a hazard when it comes to storm drains. City and county crews work to keep storm drains clear, but with thousands of drains across the state, they need your help.
You can reduce street flooding by keeping storm drain grates clear of leaves and debris. Here’s how:
- Take a look at the storm drain grates in front of your home or business before and right after a rain or snow storm. Check to make sure they are free of leaves and debris.
- Use a rake or pitch fork to clear leaves and debris from the storm drain. Please use caution! Do not put your feet or hands into the storm drain because dangerous debris could collect there. Do not try to remove the grate, only the debris on top of the grate. Dispose of leaves in your yard waste container or compost bin.
- When leaves fall into the street, rake them one foot away from the curb so they won’t block the path of rain water.
- If you can’t clean a clogged storm drain yourself, notify your the City's Municipal Services department at 630-353-8105 and let them know that help is needed.
Wondering what to do with all your extra leaves? Here are some options:
- Rake leaves into short piles and go over them with your mower. Once shredded, they make great mulch for your garden beds!
- With the City's new refuse and recycling contract with LRS, leaves are collected as part of your ward waste collection, which runs through 2nd full week of December. For more information visit LRSrecycles.com or contact LRS at 844-633-3577.
Please be aware that raking leaves into the street is a violation of city code and subject to a fine. If you see someone placing leaves in the street call 911 so the city can respond appropriately.