Cleanup Continues: Crews Working Daily to Help Buncombe County Residents

Crews continue to remove debris from our community after Tropical Storm Helene.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has contracted 4,615 parcels in Buncombe County and the City of Asheville as part of the Private Property Debris Removal Program (PPDR). Of this total, 3,224 properties have had eligible debris removed for free.

For example, 29 hauling units were working in Buncombe County on June 6, removing vegetative and construction, and demolition debris as part of PPDR, and 75 locations were worked on in one day alone.

Waterway debris removal also continues with over 1.2 million cubic yards of debris removed and about 81% completion. Thirteen crews were running for waterway debris collection on June 6 plus 38 for waterway debris hauling. 

If you applied for PPDR and are waiting to have debris cleared from your property, USACE has shared this handy guide for property owners:

Separate Debris by Type:

• Pile vegetative debris separately from C&D debris.
• Keep white goods and E-waste aside for special handling.
• Hazardous waste should not be mixed with other debris piles.
• Salvage any valuables, furniture, or personal items from debris piles before crews arrive.

Avoid Placing Debris nearby:

• Fire hydrants, mailboxes, utility poles, or under power lines, as this can slow removal and create hazards.
• Sewer grates or storm drains, which can block drainage and cause flooding.

No Contractor Debris:

• Debris from contractor-led repairs or remodeling is not eligible for PPDR.
• Contractors are responsible for removing their own construction debris.

Key Rules & Tips:

• Only disaster-generated debris is eligible for removal.
• Debris must pose an immediate threat to life, public health, or safety to qualify for PPDR.
• Household garbage is not eligible for pickup through PPDR.
• Some debris, such as asbestos, mold, or chemicals, may require special handling — check with local authorities.