The City of Norwich is reminding residents that all leaves, lawn trimmings, and twigs left out for collection must be in paper or biodegradable bags. Plastic bags and cardboard boxes will not be picked up. (Photo by Sarah Genter)

NORWICH — The City of Norwich spring pickup is going on now through May 20, and the city is reminding residents that they will now only pick up leaf litter and other yard debris if it is in paper or biodegradable bags.

"The council passed a policy last year to go to paper or biodegradable bags in 2024. So as of now, any bags that residents wish to have picked up by the City of Norwich have to be paper or biodegradable bags," said City of Norwich Mayor Brian Doliver. "Biodegradable is a kind of plastic, but it biodegrades faster. People can buy them. They generally are green or they have the recyclable symbol on them."

Paper bags can be purchased locally from Lowe's and Curtis Lumber. Doliver said he called the stores in anticipation of the spring pickup to let them know to stock up.

City residents can place bags of leaves, lawn trimmings, and twigs between the curb and sidewalk to be picked up by the City of Norwich Department of Public Works (DPW).

Additionally, DPW will also pick up bundles of brush and branches that are no more than six inches in length and three inches in diameter, and that are tied with string, rope, or twine. Brush that is tied with wire will not be collected.