Denver’s LeafDrop Program

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Compost Your Fall Leaves (and Pumpkins) — Denver’s LeafDrop Program

Every fall, the question arises: What do I do with all these leaves and leftover pumpkins? The City of Denver has a smart, eco-friendly solution: the LeafDrop & Pumpkin Recycling program.

Why It Matters

Instead of sending leaves or pumpkins to a landfill, this program encourages composting them, turning natural waste back into nutrient-rich soil. It helps reduce waste, supports sustainable landscaping, and keeps Denver greener.

How It Works

  1. Get your bags
    Denver residents can claim a free 5-pack of compostable paper leaf bags by downloading a coupon and redeeming it at participating Ace Hardware stores. Because paper bags compost too, they help the process be more seamless.

  2. Drop off your leaves (and pumpkins!)
    During the designated fall period, several drop-off sites will accept your leaves (in paper bags) or loose leaves (at select locations). After Halloween, pumpkins can also be accepted—just remove non-compostable parts first.

  3. Use your compost cart
    If you already subscribe to Denver’s green compost cart service, you can deposit leaves and yard debris there—no need to bag them during high yard waste seasons.

  4. Follow the rules

    • Plastic bags aren’t accepted; any leaves in plastic must be emptied on site.

    • Drop-offs are only allowed during specific dates and hours, depending on the site.

    • Be sure your leaves are free of large branches or debris.

    • Use only authorized drop-off locations.

2025 Drop-Off Highlights

  • Weekday sites (Oct 6 – Nov 21, 8 a.m.–2 p.m.): Cherry Creek Transfer Station, Havana Nursery, Central Platte Campus.

  • Weekend sites (Nov 8–9, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.): Bruce Randolph High School, Cherry Creek, Kennedy High, Sloan’s Lake, Veterans Park.

  • Only the Cherry Creek site accepts loose leaves and hitched trailers (≤ 6 ft).

  • All other sites require leaves in paper bags.

Tips for Residents

  • Print your coupon early and redeem it at Ace to get your free bags.

  • Rake or collect your leaves soon—once the drop sites close, your options narrow.

  • Don’t let leaves pile in the street (they clog storm drains).

  • Mark your calendar with the drop-off dates and times.

  • Remove any plastic, wire, or non-organic bits before dropping off pumpkins.

leaf map