Boise residents can leave leaves in the yard, but blowing them into the street costs money

Boise does not force homeowners to rake their lawns. While neighbors or homeowner associations may object to a leaf-covered yard, the City of Boise has no ordinance requiring cleanup. A resident who skips raking will not receive a ticket for leaving leaves on the grass.

The rules change when leaves leave the private property. Idaho Code 18-3906 classifies leaves as debris. It becomes an infraction to place debris on or alongside a public street, alley, or highway. This includes the gutter directly in front of a house.

Fines for putting leaves on the street escalate with repeat offenses. A first offense carries a $150 fine. A second offense within two years can cost up to $300. A third offense within three years is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and up to 30 days in jail.

Punishments increase if the leaf pile creates a traffic hazard. That situation is also a misdemeanor. The fine can reach $2,500, and the penalty can include up to six months in jail.

Homeowners have a free disposal option through the city. The City of Boise picks up leaves without charge. Residents should fill their compost cart first. If the cart overflows, they may place up to 10 paper leaf bags next to the cart each week. Plastic bags will not be picked up because they do not decompose.

Burning leaves is prohibited within city limits. Residents cannot burn leaves or yard debris inside Boise. While the city does not enforce general leaf cleanup, Boise Code Compliance handles complaints about fire hazards. The fire prevention code bans piles of combustible waste in yards, under decks, and on roofs. Dry vegetation and weeds are common subjects of these complaints.