Fall leaf collection begins Oct. 17 in St. Joseph County.

Crews say those who’ve subscribed to the county’s pick-up service must have leave at the curb no later than Oct. 16 for the first round of collections.

Starting this fall, the county will allow including grass clippings and pine needles in the piles. The Highway Division reminds all residents that leaves must be piled within 5 feet of the curb or pavement but should not spill out onto the paved roadway.

Leaves are not allowed to be piled in the center of cul-de-sacs or courts.

Registration for the leaf pick-up subscriber program is still open. Interested residents can go to http://sjclp.com for more information.