The city of Joliet recently issued a reminder that residents cannot, per city ordinance, move leaves from their yards onto sidewalks, parkways or streets, as it prevents street sweepers from clearing roadways.
When street sweepers encounter large piles of leaves that have been pushed or blown into streets, they must go around them due to the potential for damage to their vehicles, according to a city news release. Debris such as branches, bottles and pieces of metal are easily covered up by leaves, and those materials can cause mechanical damage to street sweepers.
Further, the city noted that leaves left on the street can lead to flooding if they block drainage inlets and can create a dangerous environment for cars and pedestrians when they become wet and slippery.
This city directed residents who observe property owners raking or blowing their leaves onto streets and sidewalks to contact the Complaint Desk at 815-724-4000. Concerned residents can also report violations to an online complaint system. Property owners who continue to violate the city ordinance on this issue face a fine of up to $750.
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