In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the City of Statesboro has suspended the issuance of residential burn permits, effective immediately. This suspension is a proactive measure to reduce the risk of accidental fires, given the large volume of storm debris scattered throughout the area.
The decision comes in response to growing safety concerns from both local fire officials and city leadership regarding the potential fire hazards associated with burning hurricane debris. With fallen trees, broken branches, and other materials strewn across properties, the risk of fires spreading uncontrollably has significantly increased.
“While we understand residents may wish to clear their properties quickly, burning debris is not the safest or most responsible method under current conditions,” says Fire Chief Tim Grams. “We strongly encourage residents to utilize the curbside debris collection services being provided by the City of Statesboro.”
The city is actively working to assist in the cleanup process, and residents are urged to take advantage of the collection services instead of burning debris. This will help ensure a safe and efficient removal process, reducing the risk of accidental fires.
The City of Statesboro is advising residents and businesses to place their yard waste and debris in the public right-of-way for collection, as the Statesboro Landfill will not be receiving waste and debris at this time. Debris should be placed curbside without blocking the roadway, storm drains, mailboxes, or fire hydrants. Debris piles should be separated into two categories: construction debris (lumber, shingles, metal, etc.) and vegetative debris (tree limbs, leaves, etc.). Waste and debris placed curbside will be collected as the city’s Public Works crews or its hired contractors can get to it.
The city would also like to remind residents that household waste, such as spoiled food, should be placed in polycarts and not in the right-of-way. The residential collection schedule for polycarts was not affected by Hurricane Helene and continues to operate as usual. Household waste will be collected on a customer’s normal collection day.
Residents needing assistance with debris cleanup from Hurricane Helene are encouraged to contact one of the following agencies:
Crisis Cleanup: will connect you with local volunteers who may be able to assist with muck out, fallen trees, tarp, and debris. All services are free, but service is not guaranteed due to the overwhelming need. The Crisis Cleanup hotline, which can be reached at (844) 965-1386, will remain open through Friday, October 11, 2024. Please note this hotline cannot assist with social services such as food, clothing, shelter, insurance, or questions about FEMA registration.
Georgia Baptist Disaster Relief: is temporarily staged at Southbridge Community Church, 12376 US Highway 301 South Statesboro, GA 30458. GBDR is here to help clean up after the storm. Residents can stop by Southbridge Church to fill out a job request form for help with the following: tree removal, roof tarping, and yard cleanup. GBDR is driven by volunteers and funded by the Georgia Baptist Mission Board. For information on how you can help volunteer, stop by the church to get connected. If you have questions about how Georgia Baptist Disaster Relief can help you, please call (770) 853-1339.
Statesboro residents will be notified when the suspension on burn permits is lifted. In the meantime, the department asks for the community’s cooperation in adhering to this safety measure.
For more information, please contact the Statesboro Fire Department at 912-764-3473 or visit www.statesborofd.com.