Hey Houston! Got Storm Debris Littering Your Yard? How to Prepare for Final Pickup

HOUSTON – The deadly storm that swept through Houston in late May, also known as a derecho, is long gone, but evidence of the storm’s destruction remains in many areas.

The City of Houston’s Solid Waste Management Department has been working seven days a week to remove storm debris from city neighborhoods over the past few weeks.

Although DSWM has already cleared approximately 1.5 million cubic metres of debris (enough to fill 50% of NRG Stadium), approximately 3 million cubic metres of debris remain to be cleared.

On Monday, July 8, city contractors plan to begin the second and final phase of debris collection, which is expected to last 30 days.

If you or someone you know still has storm debris lying around, it’s important to make sure you prepare it properly, or the city may not pick it up.

In particular, the DSWM recommends separating the debris from the storm of your bulky waste when you put it on the sidewalk.

In addition, all tree trunks must be cut down so that they measure 2 to 3 feet or less in diameter and 3 feet or less in length.

Pile of debris must also be placed within 10 feet of private property boundariessince the collection teams cannot go beyond this point.

After collection, the debris will be transported to one of four temporary collection sites to be “reduced.” In other words, the debris is processed in wood chippers and grinders, under the supervision of on-site staff to ensure safety.

Finally, staff water down debris sites after the abatement process is complete to prevent fires or excessive amounts of dust from spreading throughout the neighborhood.

While it may be tempting to kick back and relax over the holiday weekend, it might also be a good time to start preparing your storm debris for pickup, so you’re not caught off guard when the deadline passes.

Even if you don’t have your own debris to pick up, Houston city officials encourage you to report any storm debris to the 3-1-1 call center or online at Houstontx.gov/311.