Residents Reminded that only Hurricane Sally Generated Debris will be Collected

Contractors with Escambia County are continuing to collect Hurricane Sally generated debris. Unfortunately, they are finding a lot of non-storm debris and will mark it orange. The resident or business is responsible for the removal of debris unrelated to Hurricane Sally. Non-eligible debris includes:

• Landscaping/beautification
• Fresh cut vegetation
• Land clearing
• Garage cleaning
• Debris located on right of way in front of commercial property
• Debris generated by businesses
• Reconstruction debris (new construction and repairs/remodeling)
• Debris that appears it would not come from that location (illegal dumping)

"First, we would like to thank residents who have properly kept debris separated and away from storm drains and utilities," said Pat Johnson, Escambia County Waste Services director. "Their efforts enabled contractors to work more quickly. Debris monitors have been documenting what debris has looked like throughout this collection process, and unfortunately, they have discovered a lot of debris that has been set out that was not generated from Hurricane Sally. FEMA has rules for reimbursement that the county needs to follow. Federal and State agencies are involved with monitoring debris removal. We are near the end of this process and are proud of the work that has been accomplished to clean up Escambia County after Hurricane Sally."

Please do not place additional items out for pickup. The last date to set out Hurricane Sally debris was Dec. 1. Contractors estimate final pickup to be completed by Christmas.

As of Wednesday, Dec. 9, Escambia County contractors have hauled 76,868 loads, collecting 3,933,057 cubic yards of debris. This equals 616 football fields with debris stacked 3 feet high. That's enough debris to fill 85% of the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans!