St. Johns County expects storm debris to be picked up by December

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St. Johns County officials are telling residents that they’re expecting all Hurricane Irma storm debris to be picked up by December.

The county said the debris removal program has been unexpectedly prolonged due to resources being limited by Hurricane Harvey and the widespread impact of Irma to the state of Florida. In addition, representatives said the size of several debris removal trucks prevents passage down some of the county’s more narrow streets, which creates the need for multiple passes by smaller trucks. According to the county, Irma left approximately 600,000 cubic yards of debris in the form of fallen limbs, trees, fences, docks and homes and business damage.

Every street in St. Johns County will receive an initial pickup of debris, they said, with subsequent passes being conducted as needed until all storm-related debris has been removed. St. Johns County began a community-wide debris removal program that first targeted the main thoroughfares and areas most impacted. Ashbritt Environmental, the emergency debris removal contractor, and Advanced Disposal and Republic Services, the county’s regular trash haulers, are all assisting with the debris removal program. The county is reminding residents that its contractors cannot pick up debris located on state roads. Those living on such roads should call the Florida Department of Transportation debris hotline at (904) 825-5036 to report debris and request service.

To view the county’s debris removal program update for the latest collection totals, visit www.sjcfl.us. If you have any questions concerning debris removal, the county is encouraging you to call (904) 827-6980 or email solidwaste@sjcfl.us.