As the last of the fall colors fade across Door County and front yards transition from golden canopies to crunchy carpets of leaves, local municipalities are reminding residents that autumn cleanup season is officially underway. From leaf disposal to post-Thanksgiving recycling and even early plans for Christmas tree drop-offs, there are plenty of opportunities for residents to tidy up before winter takes hold.
Most Door County communities, including Sturgeon Bay, Egg Harbor, and Sister Bay, have already begun their annual leaf collection services. In Sturgeon Bay, curbside pickup typically runs through late November, depending on weather conditions. Residents are asked to rake leaves, and only leaves, into loose piles along the curb (and within 6 feet of said curb), keeping them off the street and clear of storm drains. Bagged leaves will not be collected. The city crews make rotating passes through neighborhoods, and while there’s no set schedule for specific streets, residents are encouraged to have their piles ready early to ensure pickup before snow arrives.
For those wanting to dispose of yard waste directly, the Sturgeon Bay Yard Waste Site on Division Road is open to residents with a permit. The site accepts leaves, brushes, small branches, and garden debris. Sister Bay and Gibraltar offer similar drop off locations, and most municipal sites remain open until the ground freezes. Residents should check their local village or town website for updated hours as winter approaches.
Once Thanksgiving rolls around, cleanup extends indoors as well. The Door County Waste and Recycling Center reminds residents that many holiday items are recyclable, including cardboard from early gift shipments, clean aluminum pie tins, and most plastic food containers. However, greasy pans, used napkins, and foil-lined wrapping paper should stay out of the trash. Composting is encouraged for vegetable scraps, just make sure the leftover turkey carcass doesn’t join the compost pile.
Looking ahead to the holiday season, several municipalities are preparing their annual Christmas tree disposal programs, offering residents a convenient and environmentally friendly way to retire their trees after the new year. Sturgeon Bay’s Christmas tree collection typically begins the first week of January, with crews picking up natural, undecorated trees placed curbside. Trees should be free of lights, ornaments, tinsel, and stands. For those who prefer to drop trees off sooner, many local yard waste sites will accept them throughout the winter.
Environmental staff across the county emphasize that responsible seasonal cleanup helps keep Door County’s landscapes, shorelines, and neighborhoods beautiful year-round. By raking thoughtfully, recycling properly, and preparing early for winter, residents can enjoy the transition from fiery fall foliage to the cozy glow of the holiday season, all while keeping Door County clean and green.
