Dec. 21 final day for storm debris collection in St. John

Published 12:00 am Saturday, December 1, 2012

As St. John Parish moves forward with recovery efforts after Hurricane Isaac, storm-related debris removal will end soon. The final day to place storm-related debris curbside will be Friday, Dec. 21. If possible, residents are strongly encouraged to do so before this date to ensure collection before Christmas.

Residents can call the DRC hotline at 504-256-1067, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., to request pick-up of debris. Storm-related debris located on state highways is the responsibility of the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development. To report debris on state highways, please call 985-375-0100. Vegetative debris will be removed by parish employees.

Debris related to new construction is not eligible for collection by DRC. Contractors are responsible for removal of debris related to new construction. Storm-related debris disposed of along roadways, vacant lots, parks, construction sites and other unauthorized locations is considered illegal dumping, and violators will be fined. The Parish Recycle Yard is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Call the Public Works Department at 985-652-4815 to ensure the bin is empty.    

Residents needing volunteer assistance should call the Home Repair Hotline at 985-359-0254, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Volunteers are available to assist residents in cleaning and gutting homes.

Debris reminders:

• Debris must be separated into vegetative (organic, trees, shrubs, stumps, etc.), construction and demolition (any treated wood or lumber drywall, roofing materials), white goods (refrigerators, freezers, washers, dryers), and household hazardous waste and e-waste (computers, televisions, etc.).

• Do not place debris near mail boxes, utility boxes, utility poles, water meters or fire hydrants.

• Do not place piles next to fences or cars.

• Do not place material for pick-up under low wires or overhanging tree limbs.

• Consider placing debris on a sheet of plywood or other similar material to minimize damage to your property.

• New construction debris is not eligible for pick-up.