INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Tree limbs, bushes, palm fronds and other debris left behind by Hurricane Irma will be collected on public roads in the unincorporated areas of the county starting next week, according to the Emergency Services Department.
An assessment by county staff estimates that there is at least 100,000 cubic yards of vegetative debris from Hurricane Irma. It’s possible that number will increase as assessments continue.
The County is working with FEMA to determine if funding will be available for collection of storm-related debris on private roads, officials said.
Here are some guidelines for preparing vegetative storm debris for pickup:
- Vegetative debris should be placed on the curbside, not on the sidewalks or roadways.
- Do not place vegetative debris under trees that will slow down equipment used to remove debris.
- Vegetative debris should be placed in separate piles. The vegetative debris will not be picked up if it is mixed with garbage, wood or construction debris, metals, and white goods such as fridges, hot water heaters and dishwashers.
- Do not use plastic bags for vegetative debris; it makes the debris impossible to recycle or mulch.
- Do not put vegetative debris on storm drains, fire hydrants, water meters or any other utility features.