What Should You Do with Storm Debris?

To assist residents in the cleanup of storm debris resulting from the Oct. 29-30 snowstorm, a debris removal program will begin on Nov. 14.

All residents in all areas are advised to bring their storm debris to the curbside immediately. It is imperative that all debris be free and clear of any stone/masonry walls, landscaped areas, light poles and guide wires, fences, walkways or other objects in the yard.

The debris removal program is intended for the collection of large branches and limbs that were damaged in the October 29-30 storm. Residents are asked not to cut down trees or trim tree limbs that were not damaged in the storm. Debris judged to be non-storm related will not be picked up.

Branches and limbs are to be stacked neatly curbside and not on the street or blocking any sidewalk with the butt ends all facing in the same direction. The length of branches and limbs shall be 4 feet to 8 feet and be of a diameter of 1 inch to 15 inch. No stumps are to be brought to the curb. Please do not mix yard waste bags within the pile of branches and limbs.

Also, material brought to the curb must be free of wire, metal, stones or other construction, building or demolition debris.

Each street will receive two passes with a weekend to occur between the first and second pass.

The cleanup of small branches and limbs left behind will be the responsibility of each homeowner. Residents are reminded that brown paper bags for leaves and yard waste are available at area supermarkets and home centers.

The town will not be responsible for any lawn damage caused by the removal process.

If residents wish to hire at their own expenses a contractor to pick up storm debris please be sure to hire only Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB) certified companies. The list of certified companies can be found here or by calling the ALB Eradication Program Office at 508-852-8008.

Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the upcoming curbside yard waste collection program that will start on Nov. 7 to Nov. 12, Nov. 14 to Nov. 18 and Nov. 28 to Dec. 2.

Leaves, grass, and yard waste may be bagged in large brown bags (for example: small debris, such as twigs and branches) and lined up at the curb for collection. Limbs and branches that are less that 3 inches in diameter may be tied in bundles no more than 4 feet long and no more than 18 inches in girth. Do not pile bundles; lay them in a row along the curbside for collection by 7 a.m. on regular rubbish days.

Residents on a corner lot are reminded not to pile debris or other materials as to obstruct the visibility of drivers.

Questions regarding the debris removal program should be addressed to John Knipe, superintendent of streets, at 508-841-8513 or town manager's fffice at 508-841-8508.

Call the Board of Health for any yard and waste collection questions at 508-841-8512.