(Richland PIO) – Many Richland County residents continue to deal with fallen trees, tree limbs and yard debris left in the path of Hurricane Helene. The County’s Public Works Department has been diligent about clearing area roadways since the storm and is now prepared to help curbside collection contractors remove storm debris.

Curbside collection will continue under the established guidelines and limitations for yard waste collection. These guidelines include:

• organic materials only
• no dirt, sand, mulch or rock
• no tree limbs longer than 4 feet and no larger than 4 inches in diameter
• quantities of waste no more than the equivalent of two 96-gallon roll carts or six yard waste bags each week

Residents who work with contracted landscaping services to remove debris should ensure those contractors properly dispose of large quantities of yard waste. The same applies to residents doing their own tree and limb removal. Yard waste may be dropped off at the Richland County C&D Landfill, at 1070 Caughman Road N., Columbia.

Some larger limbs and brush that fell in the area because of the storm do not qualify for weekly curbside collection. These should be placed at the roadside for removal. Please ensure they are at least 6 feet from your regular yard waste pile, roll carts, or any other stationary objects, and are clear of low-hanging branches.

Crews with Richland County Public Works will pick up storm debris throughout the County. To report debris, please call the County Ombudsman’s Office at 803-929-6000 or email ombudsman@richlandcountysc.gov with your location and the materials needing collection. The County appreciates residents’ patience as crews work through the recovery process.