If you have ever dragged a stack of yard waste bags to the curb only to see them still sitting there the next day, you are not alone. Loudonville’s schedule and rules can feel confusing when you first move in or when seasons change. With a few quick checks, you can avoid missed pickups, keep your curb clean, and stay market‑ready if you plan to sell. This guide walks you through how to read the Town of Colonie schedule, what goes to the curb, drop‑off options, and simple prep tips. Let’s dive in.
Know your zone and schedule
Your pickup day depends on your collection zone. Loudonville is typically included in the Albany Shaker zone, but you should confirm your exact address on the Town of Colonie website or by calling the Department of Public Works (DPW).
- Look up your address on the town’s collection calendar or zone map.
- Note whether your address is in Loudonville/Albany Shaker and record your weekly yard waste day.
- Check the calendar for seasonal changes. Yard waste often runs spring through fall, with modified service or pauses in winter. Leaf pickup is a separate fall program with announced rounds.
- Review holiday adjustments. When a public holiday falls on your pickup day, collection may shift to the next weekday.
Tip: If you just moved in, confirm your zone, your regular yard waste day, and the leaf collection dates the same week you close. It prevents surprises and keeps your new curb neat.
What you can place at the curb
Accepted materials
Most programs accept routine yard debris. Expect eligibility for:
- Leaves and grass clippings
- Garden plants and small yard trimmings
- Small branches, brush, and shrub clippings
- Some root balls from shrubs (confirm any restrictions)
Always separate brush from loose material like leaves and grass. Crews often use different trucks for different materials.
Bagging small stuff
Use biodegradable paper yard waste bags or an open, rigid container if allowed by the town. Plastic bags are generally not accepted for yard waste. If containers are allowed, confirm any weight limits and whether lids must be removed on collection day.
Bundling brush and branches
Cut branches and brush into manageable pieces and tie them into bundles with twine. Do not bag brush. Most towns set length and diameter limits for safety. Confirm the current maximums on the town page before you bundle.
Set‑out timing and placement
- Place materials at the curb edge by early morning on your collection day.
- Keep piles clear of mailboxes, parked cars, street trees, sidewalks, and storm drains.
- Do not place anything in the roadway.
If your items are late to the curb or do not meet prep rules, pickup may be delayed until the next cycle.
What not to set out
Avoid items that town crews typically do not accept curbside:
- Tree stumps, large trunks, and oversized root systems
- Soil, sod, rocks, and construction debris
- Plastic bags or materials mixed with plastic
- Treated wood or anything with chemicals
When in doubt, check the current prohibited list before set‑out. It saves you time and prevents rework.
Drop‑off options for Loudonville residents
If you miss a pickup window or have more debris than the curb will take, you have alternatives:
- Town yard waste drop‑off or transfer station. Residents can usually bring leaves and brush with proof of residency. Verify acceptable materials, hours, and any fees.
- County facilities. Albany County or regional transfer stations may accept yard waste or offer composting. Confirm what they take, required ID, and costs.
- Private composting and mulch businesses. Some local operators accept yard waste for a fee and sell finished mulch or compost.
- Home composting. If space allows, composting leaves and garden trimmings at home reduces volume and yields useful soil amendment. Follow New York State DEC guidance and local rules.
- Seasonal chipping or special events. Watch the town’s announcements for brush chipping days or extra collection events after storms.
Seasonal programs to watch
- Fall leaf pickup. The town usually runs leaf collection rounds by zone. You may be directed to rake leaves to the curb, not into the street or drains. Check the schedule for your zone and the number of passes expected.
- Spring clean‑up. Spring often brings more frequent yard waste service or special pick‑ups.
- Storm debris. After major weather events, the town may schedule extra brush pickups. Follow official notices for timing and preparation instructions.
- Holiday shifts. Pickup days often move to the next weekday when holidays fall on collection days.
If your pickup was missed
- Recheck your prep. Make sure you used paper bags or approved containers, bundled brush correctly, and separated materials as required.
- Review the calendar. Weather delays and holiday shifts can move your pickup day.
- Contact DPW. Use the town’s online form or phone number to report a missed pickup. Include your address and details. Keep a simple record of dates if misses repeat.
If you are preparing for showings, schedule a private hauler if timing is tight. It protects your curb appeal.
Quick set‑out checklist
- Confirm this week’s collection day for your zone.
- Bag leaves and grass in paper yard waste bags or use an approved container.
- Cut and tie brush in manageable bundles; keep it separate from loose material.
- Place items at the curb edge by early morning and clear of obstacles.
- Keep plastic, soil, and prohibited items out of yard waste.
Showing soon? Keep your curb market‑ready
When buyers arrive, the first thing they see is your exterior. A tidy curb sets the tone for the whole tour.
- Stage your exterior early in the week, not the night before showings.
- Store filled paper bags in a garage or screened area until collection day.
- Clear gutters and storm drains of leaves to prevent pooling and stains.
- If you will miss a town pickup, book a private removal so bags and bundles are not visible during showings.
New to Loudonville? Your first‑week plan
- Verify your address and zone on the town site or by calling DPW.
- Add yard waste and leaf rounds to your calendar.
- Pick up paper yard waste bags and twine from a local hardware store.
- Walk your curb line to find the best set‑out spot that stays clear of cars and mailboxes.
- Note HOA rules if applicable, since some neighborhoods add their own standards.
Ready to prep your curb for market or settle into a smart weekly routine? Get your free home valuation and local guidance from Unknown Company.
FAQs
How do I find my Loudonville pickup day?
- Use the Town of Colonie address lookup or zone map on the DPW site, or call DPW to confirm your day in the Loudonville/Albany Shaker zone.
Can I use plastic bags for leaves in Loudonville?
- No. Most programs in the area prohibit plastic for yard waste. Use biodegradable paper bags or an approved rigid container if allowed by the town.
What size should brush bundles be for curb pickup?
- Cut brush into manageable lengths and tie bundles with twine. Towns set maximum length and diameter limits, so confirm the current Colonie limits before bundling.
What if my landscaper leaves a large pile of debris?
- Check the town’s policy on contractor‑generated waste. Some towns require landscapers to haul away debris or use permits. You may be responsible for removal if it is not covered.
Where can I drop off yard waste if I miss pickup?
- Use the Town of Colonie yard waste drop‑off or a county transfer station that accepts yard material. Bring proof of residency and confirm hours and fees first.
How often does Loudonville leaf pickup run in the fall?
- Fall leaf service runs on a seasonal schedule with rounds by zone. Check the town calendar for your address to see dates and the number of passes planned.
