Council adopts ordinance banning leaves and yard waste in streets, sets fines and cites stormwater and safety concerns

The West Haven City Council adopted an ordinance (Communication A) that prohibits placing, raking or blowing leaves and yard waste onto streets, public rights of way, waterways and other public property.

Acting Chair Ronald Quaglani, presenting the Legislative Matters Committee recommendation, said the measure is intended to keep leaves out of storm drains (the city is an MS4 community) and to reduce safety hazards when wet. The ordinance authorizes enforcement by citation under Chapter 128 and sets penalties of up to $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second and $250 for subsequent offenses; it also authorizes the city to remove violations and recover associated costs.

Council members discussed implementation and enforcement discretion. Councilwoman Anne Hefernan and others asked whether the ordinance provides a warning period or guidance for residents who are actively cleaning their property; Quaglani and the mayor said enforcement officers (blight or code officers, police where appropriate) are expected to use judgment. Several members urged public notification and common‑sense application to avoid penalizing residents who are actively removing leaves.

The council voted to adopt the ordinance as written and directed staff to handle public notice and enforcement implementation.

Next steps: The Department of Public Works will be responsible for enforcement actions described in the ordinance and the council expects a public‑information effort before strict enforcement begins.