Important Information on Debris Removal After Harvey

You've pulled out your carpet, removed ruined drywall, and discarded water-logged furniture and appliances. Now, where do you put your debris?

CITY OF HOUSTON

The following information was provided by the City of Houston:

City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department is asking residents to remove all parked vehicles from the streets when debris crews are working in your neighborhood.

Debris needs to be placed close to the side of the road away from mailboxes, trees, meters, fire hydrants and other structures. Do not place debris in the roadway. If heavy trucks are unable to pass safely along the streets, the City will not be able to remove the debris.

Storm Debris Collection 

Storm debris will be collected on an ongoing basis until further notice. Please place debris at the curb separated into the following piles:

• Leaves, logs, plants, tree branches (do not bag).
• Construction & demolition material - carpet, drywall, furniture, lumber, mattresses
• Appliances - dishwashers, freezers, refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers, water heaters
• Electronics - computers, radios, stereos, televisions, other devices with a cord.
• Household Hazardous Waste - cleaning supplies, batteries, lawn chemical, oils, oil-based paints, stains and pesticide

Garbage Collection 

Normal collection services have resumed. Please remember that due to the disaster debris collection efforts, the only regularly scheduled solid waste service is garbage collection.

Curbside Recycling, Yard Waste and Junk/Tree Waste Collections

Curbside recycling, yard waste and junk/tree waste are suspended until further notice. Please do not put your green cart with recycling or yard waste bags out, they will not be collected. We appreciate your cooperation and patience as we all recover together.

LEARN MORE: Solid Waste Management Department

UNINCORPARATED HARRIS COUNTY

The following information was provided by Harris County:

For your convenience, a hotline for residents in unincorporated Harris County is set up to advise on the debris removal and building permit process. It’s 713-274-3880, or via email at Homeflooding@hcpid.org. THIS DOES NOT INCLUDE HAZARDOUS WASTE.

Storm Debris Collection

Harris County has begun its debris removal process for residents in the unincorporated county. Please place your debris curbside separated as follows:

• Trees and Plants
• Carpet and Furniture
• Electronics such as TV’s and radios.
• Appliances
• Destruction and Demolition Materials

Please do not bag your debris. However, if bagging is necessary, use a clear bag. Normal household trash pick up is not included in this process.

Hazardous Waste Disposal

Household hazardous waste should be taken to the County’s Household Hazardous Waste Facility at 6900 Hahl Road for disposal. Call 281-560-6200 or go to www.hchhw.org for more information. 

Please take precautions to prevent disaster-related casualties and fatalities:

• Be aware of damaged water, gas, and electric lines.
• Be aware of damaged building and construction materials.
• Do not attempt to conduct major tree work or reconstruction without proper equipment, permits, and training.
• Be aware of household hazardous waste and contaminants.
• Report any hazardous materials spills to: Harris County Pollution Control Services Department at 713-920-2831.

As Houston continues to cope with the largest natural disaster we have ever faced and the recovery process begins, I hope you find these resources helpful.