If your Vernon yard is covered in fallen leaves, now is the time to start planning your fall cleanup. The City of Vernon is bringing back its free annual curbside leaf pickup program from November 16–20, 2026, giving local homeowners an opportunity to clear their yards before winter arrives.

The program is available to Vernon residents who receive curbside waste collection services. During the designated week, Emterra Environmental will collect bagged leaves on each household's regular garbage collection day. Here is what homeowners need to know, along with a few other ways to prepare their properties for the colder months ahead.

How Does Vernon's Free Leaf Pickup Program Work?

The City's annual fall leaf pickup makes it easier for residents to manage seasonal yard cleanup without having to transport bags of leaves themselves. However, there are a few collection requirements to remember:

• Leaves must be placed in clear, transparent plastic bags so collection crews can see the contents.
• There is no limit to the number of clear bags residents can put out.
• Bags must be placed at the same location as regular garbage collection.
• All bags must be at the curb before 7:00 a.m. on your designated collection day.
• Each bag must weigh no more than 23 kilograms (50 pounds).
• Coloured or opaque bags will be treated as regular household garbage and are subject to standard collection limits.
• Missed collections must be reported to the City within 24 hours.

Not sure which day your garbage is collected? You can check your address using the City's Vernon waste collection schedule.

For complete program details, visit the City of Vernon's official fall leaf pickup information page.

Keep Leaves Out of the Street

One important reminder from the City is to avoid raking leaves onto streets or roadways. While it might seem like an easy way to manage large piles, leaves can block storm drains and interfere with street sweeping operations.

Instead, bag leaves for the scheduled collection or consider other appropriate yard waste disposal options. The City also operates a separate residential curbside organics collection program that accepts eligible yard waste.

Fall Yard Cleanup: 5 Ways to Prepare Your Property for Winter

The upcoming leaf pickup is a good opportunity to tackle a few other outdoor maintenance tasks. A little preparation now can help protect your property and make the transition into winter easier.

1. Clear Leaves From Walkways and Garden Areas

Wet leaves can become slippery, particularly on steps, driveways and walkways. Clear away accumulated leaves around frequently used entrances and pathways to help reduce slipping hazards. You can also tidy garden beds, remove dead annual plants and decide which leaves should be cleared or left behind as natural mulch.

2. Check Gutters and Downspouts

Fallen leaves can quickly accumulate in gutters, preventing rainwater from draining properly. Check gutters and downspouts for blockages and make sure water is being directed away from your home's foundation. This is particularly important as Vernon moves into its wetter and colder months.

3. Inspect Outdoor Drainage Areas

Take a walk around your property and look for areas where water tends to collect. Clear leaves and debris from accessible drainage areas and keep nearby storm drains free of obstructions. Proper drainage can help reduce unwanted water accumulation around your home.

4. Store Summer Equipment and Outdoor Furniture

Hoses, garden tools, outdoor furniture and seasonal equipment can all benefit from a little attention before freezing temperatures arrive. Drain and store garden hoses, put away items that could be damaged by winter weather and organize your outdoor storage areas.

5. Check Your Home's Exterior

Fall is an excellent time to inspect your home's exterior for small maintenance issues. Look for loose exterior fixtures, damaged screens, worn weather stripping and areas where caulking or exterior seals may need attention. Addressing minor concerns before winter can help prevent them from becoming larger projects later.

Why Fall Maintenance Matters When Selling Your Vernon Home

Keeping up with seasonal maintenance is about more than having a tidy yard. For homeowners considering selling, the condition of the property's exterior can influence the first impression prospective buyers have when they arrive.

Even during the quieter landscaping months, buyers notice the condition of driveways, walkways, garden beds, exterior surfaces and outdoor spaces. A well-maintained property can communicate that the home has been cared for, regardless of the season.

If selling is on your radar for the coming months, fall is a practical time to start addressing smaller maintenance projects before preparing your home for the market. From exterior cleanup to general upkeep, these efforts can help make the eventual listing process more manageable.

You can also explore our Vernon real estate listings to see what is currently available in the local market and get a feel for the competition.

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

With Vernon's free curbside leaf pickup scheduled for November 16–20, 2026, homeowners have a helpful opportunity to get ahead of their fall yard work. Remember to use clear bags, check your regular garbage collection day and have everything ready before 7:00 a.m.

Once the leaves are taken care of, use the opportunity to inspect your property, clear outdoor spaces and tackle a few important maintenance jobs before winter sets in.

Whether you are planning to stay put, thinking about making a move or simply keeping an eye on the local market, taking care of your home is always a worthwhile investment.

For more local real estate information, market updates and homeowner tips, explore the Salt Fowler real estate blog. If you are considering buying or selling in Vernon or the North Okanagan, RE/MAX Vernon Salt Fowler is here to help.