Q & A

 

During disaster clean-up, are my regular garbage and recyclable schedules affected?

No. Regular garbage and recyclable pickups are performed by the franchised garbage company and continue on a regular schedule as long as it is safe to do so and roadways are clear of debris. Pickup of garbage is the highest priority because of health hazards associated with putrification.


What is the schedule for debris removal?

The county has enlisted extra resources for the pickup of storm debris and will announce to the local media and on its website when crews are in what area.

 

A hauler came and picked up part of my debris. Will they come back?

This is not unusual that a truck may pick up some of your debris but not all of it on a particular sweep. Trucks will come back later to pick up the rest.

 

 

Main Content

 Hurricane and Disaster Debris Management Information


Collections Prior to the Storm:

In the event of any weather-related incidents, regularly scheduled garbage, recycling and yard waste collections are performed and remain in effect until sustained tropical storm force winds reach 39 mph, providing there are no road or bridge closures.

Move empty garbage containers immediately after the collection to a secure area so they don't roll into traffic or become projectiles.

In the case of impending storm conditions, please check this web page for messages or tune to your local media for updates or announcement of changes to your collection schedule.

Thank you. We wish you a nice, safe summer.

 

General Information To Ensure Your Safety: 

  • If you do not evacuate, stay indoors until Lee County authorities have announced your area is safe. Travel is extremely dangerous, and blowing debris can injure or kill. Seek refuge in an interior, windowless area such as a hallway, closet or bathroom. Stay away from windows and avoid using electrical appliances.

 

For hurricane information not related to debris collections, call the Lee County Emergency Operations Center at (239) 477-3600.
  • After a storm, expect the worst. Be careful of downed power lines, gas leaks, weakened structures, dangerous animals, poisonous snakes. Do not drink the tap water. Eat only foods that you are absolutely sure are safe. Listen to local radio stations for disaster relief information and instructions.

 

Collections After the Storm:

Residents

  • Please set out three separate piles: garbage, yard waste and construction demolition debris. Make sure that each pile is clear of any electrical lines, water meters, mailboxes and fire hydrants.

  • Keep any hazardous waste separate and contact the Solid Waste Division at (239) 533-8000 for disposal options.

  • Clean-up Dates: After a hurricane, listen to local media for updates. Lee County will issue press releases and post clean-up dates on the County's website, and/or advertise in the local newspaper. Ensure that all material is at the curb for pick up at the time of the announced date. Clean-up crews will proceed from street to street. Emergency access roadways will be cleared first. This is a large-scale operation and your patience is greatly appreciated.

 

Remember, in a severe storm, the entire county could be covered with debris. Please have patience. We will be working in the hardest-hit areas first and will pick up your debris as quickly as we can.


 

Businesses are required to make their own arrangements for debris clean-up!