TAVARES, Fla – In the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, Lake County has collected more than half of the vegetative debris left in the storm’s wake. For residents still awaiting debris pick up, the county has created a debris collection map.
Debris collection is on a steady increase with the addition of contracted hauler trucks combined with the assistance of county personnel. The hauler is picking up debris along all county-maintained roads, in the municipalities of Umatilla, Minneola, Clermont and Howey-in-the-Hills, and in private communities and private roads where homeowners have signed right-of-entry forms.
Environmental Services Manager Mary Hamilton says residents should be aware all loads are tracked and carefully recorded. “Some homes or roads may be skipped initially for operational reasons, but no area will be missed at the end of the pick-up process.”
Heavily populated areas with excessive amounts of debris have been the focus of initial rounds of pickup. Remaining storm debris and construction debris will be the focus of the second round of collections. Residents are asked to ensure that their storm-related debris is placed on the curb or at the side of the road for collection. Vegetative debris should be separated from construction debris. All debris must be kept clear of storm drains, off of roadways, and away from power lines.
Residents may also dispose of debris themselves at the Lake County landfill or any of the five convenience centers. The Lake County landfill is located at 13130 County Landfill Road in Tavares. Convenience centers are located in Lake Mary, Clermont, Astor, Deland, and Paisley.
Call the Solid Waste department at (352) 343-3776 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m to 5 p.m for more information, or visit their website to download the right-of-entry form.
