Think Dumping Autumn Leaves in the Woods Is Legal in Massachusetts? Think Again

So, you couldn't wait for fall to arrive in New England. It's a time for warm sweaters, cool, crisp afternoons, and lots of brightly colored leaves. Aren't they pretty, though?

There are few places better to see fall colors than Massachusetts. It's even better when you see it from a hot air balloon.

Every year, though, we forget that those fiery red and burnt orange leaves will soon turn brown and fall to the ground, blowing into massive piles on our lawns and collecting in the gutters on our houses.

All of those leaves must be disposed of, but how? Your options are limited, particularly if you live in a Massachusetts city.

Why Dumping Leaves in the Woods Is Illegal in Massachusetts

When I owned my home in New Bedford, I always carted the leaves across the street to the woods; after all, it's where they came from. However, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts says that is illegal. Who knew?

MassDEP Regulations on Yard Waste and Trash Bins

The University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) reminds us: "The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (Mass DEP) regulations 310 CMR 19.017 ban landfill, transfer, or combustion facilities from accepting yard waste except for recycling or composting."

"The only exception to this ban is for material that is contaminated and not acceptable for recycling or composting," according to the school's website.

Massachusetts Bans Dumping Leaves And Yard Waste In The Woods

The state prohibits placing leaves and yard waste in your regular curbside trash or recycling bins. Also, dumping leaves or yard waste in the woods, on public streets, near wetlands, or into storm drains and water bodies is illegal under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and local ordinances.

Legal and Safe Ways to Dispose of Fall Leaves

The open burning of leaves, grass, hay, and stumps is strictly prohibited in Massachusetts communities because they produce heavy acrid smoke that threatens public health and air quality. Where burning of permissible agricultural debris is allowed, a permit is usually required and can be obtained for a fee at your town hall.

Massachusetts residents can compost, or mulch leaves into their lawns using a lawn mower.

Many communities, including New Bedford and Fall River, offer curbside pickup for leaves and yard waste placed in biodegradable paper bags that can be purchased at local stores such as BJ's, Home Depot, and Lowe's.

Some communities have designated areas where leaves and yard debris can be dropped off. Homeowners can also hire a private landscaper to collect the leaves and yard waste and haul it away.