Portland to Clear Leaves in 50 Zones Through December
PBOT crews begin a free seasonal cleanup on November 9 to protect storm drains and pedestrian access in outdoor dining areas.
By Jason Kovalenko ·
Portland will begin a citywide leaf removal effort on November 9.
The Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) has scheduled annual Leaf Day collections to run through December 21, 2026. Crews will service more than 50 designated Leaf Zones across the city. This free service targets fallen foliage that can clog storm drains, cause localized flooding, and make sidewalks slippery for pedestrians and diners.
Businesses operating outdoor dining spaces within these zones are asked to prepare their areas for the sweepers. Permittees should remove accumulated leaves from beneath and around their installations to keep pedestrian pathways clear. One day before the scheduled pickup, owners must rake loose tree leaves into the street, leaving a one-foot gap between the pile and the curb to allow for stormwater runoff. The raked material should contain only loose leaves; branches and pinecones must be excluded.
Vehicles parked in designated clean-sweep zones may be ticketed or towed if they block the sweepers. PBOT notes that even businesses outside designated zones should regularly remove leaves to maintain safe access.
In a related update for the November season, 35 local food businesses are participating in World Vegan Month. The initiative runs from November 1 through November 30 and features plant-based menu items at participating establishments. Five of these businesses are also members of PBOT's Outdoor Dining Program. Maruti Indian Restaurant is serving Vegan Butter Chicken for $22. Norah is offering Crispy Coconut Rice for $10 and Kabocha Bread Pudding for $9.
Rad Magic Subs is providing a Pastrami Dog for $14, while Secret Pizza Society is featuring the Diligent Don for $11. Mirisata is listing a Hibiscus-Ginger Warmer for $14. Participants in the promotion can collect stamps on a card to enter a drawing for gift cards.
The city's Bureau of Planning and Sustainability also issued new guidance for reducing food waste. The agency encourages businesses to track discarded ingredients, repurpose food across menu items, and donate surplus edible food to local rescue organizations. Food donations are protected under Good Samaritan laws and may be tax deductible.
A new Myth vs. Fact column addressed the use of propane heaters in outdoor dining spaces. PBOT clarified that propane heaters require separate approval from Portland Fire & Rescue. These heaters cannot be used in installations with roofs, and propane tanks are never allowed on sidewalks or streets.
