Residents Reminded of Yard Waste Collection and Debris Disposal Option

Published on May 21, 2026

Following the severe windstorm that impacted Kalamazoo in late April, the City of Kalamazoo is transitioning from storm response operations and reminding residents of available options for managing any remaining storm debris.

In the days following the storm, City of Kalamazoo Public Services, Public Safety, and Emergency Management crews worked continuously alongside contractors, partner agencies, and utility crews to reopen streets, clear hazards, and support recovery efforts throughout the community. More than 60 locations across the city were impacted by downed trees and power lines, with crews prioritizing locations involving blocked roads, sidewalks, structures, and other public safety hazards.

As these operations wind down, residents are encouraged to prepare remaining brush and tree debris for collection through the City’s regular monthly curbside yard waste collection program or bring material to the temporary storm debris drop-off site at 322 Stockbridge Avenue through May 31.

Responsibility for tree maintenance and debris cleanup depends on where a tree is located. The City of Kalamazoo is responsible for the maintenance, cleanup, and removal of City-owned trees located within the public right-of-way, generally the area between the sidewalk and street. Property owners are responsible for the maintenance, cleanup, and disposal of trees and debris located on private property, including privately-owned trees trimmed by Consumers Energy.

Curbside yard waste collection takes place once per month from April through October based on residents’ addresses. Residents can find their collection day by searching their address at www.kalamazoocity.org/YardWaste, in the View from the Curb, or by calling 311.

The yard waste program accepts branches, twigs, and trimmings up to four feet long and two inches in diameter, along with leaves and weeds. Material must be bundled with twine or placed in biodegradable bags or open cardboard boxes. Loose piles of debris are not accepted.

Residents can place prepared material at the curb starting the day before their scheduled collection. Material should be out for pickup no later than 6 a.m. on their collection day. Missed collections should be reported within 48 hours by calling 311 or (269) 337-8000, or visiting kalamazoocity.org/311.

The temporary storm debris drop-off site at 322 Stockbridge Avenue will remain open through May 31 for residents needing an additional disposal option.

Thank you for your patience, cooperation, and resilience throughout the storm recovery process.