Michigan Law Prohibits Leaves in Trash, But What About the Street?

The leaves are falling across Michigan.

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Before you get rid of them make sure you know what the law says about what you can and can't do.

Is it Legal to Put Leaves in the Street in Michigan?

In Michigan, the legality of disposing of leaves in the street varies by local municipality.

While the state itself does not have an official rule regarding this practice, many local municipalities do have specific regulations.

For instance, in cities like Grand Rapids and Lansing, it is illegal to rake, pile, or blow leaves or tree branches into the city streets or storm drains. Violation of these local ordinances can result in fines.

However, in East Grand Rapids, you can place leaves in the street.

How Much Are Fines?

Under Michigan's littering law, disposing of yard waste, including leaves, in a water body is a civil infraction that can be ticketed by local law enforcement and is punishable with fines ranging from $800 to $5,000, depending on the circumstances.

This is also a violation of Michigan water pollution control regulations, which are enforced by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), and can attract even higher fines.

The EGLE encourages Michigan residents to compost, schedule pick-up with local waste providers that offer yard waste collection, or find a drop-off location for composting yard waste.

Can You Burn Leaves?

Burning of yard waste is considered open burning and may not be allowed by local  regulations in your area.

It's important to check with your local government for additional open-burning restrictions.

To be safe I would stay away from raking or blowing any leaves into the street.