COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) – The Columbus Consolidated Government’s Department of Public Works will temporarily suspend Tree for Fee charges for eligible residential storm debris following widespread storm damage in a designated area of Columbus-Muscogee County.
Public Works has mapped the affected area to determine which properties qualify for collection under the moratorium. The designated storm collection area is generally bounded by the Columbus-Manchester Expressway to the north, Woodruff Farm Road to the east, Macon Road to the west and St. Mary’s Road to the south.
The moratorium applies only to residential properties located within the designated storm-affected area. Residents can review a map provided by the city to determine whether their property falls within the collection zone.
Collection dates and requirements
Eligible residential storm debris within the designated area will be collected without charge beginning Monday, Sept. 21, 2026, and continuing through Monday, Oct. 12, 2026. After Oct. 12, regular Tree for Fee charges will apply.
To qualify for collection:
- The property must be located within the designated storm collection area.
- Tree limbs and debris must have resulted from the recent storm.
- Trees and limbs must be cut into lengths no longer than four feet and six inches in diameter.
- Debris must be placed at the curb for collection.
- Debris must not block streets, sidewalks, storm drains, fire hydrants, mailboxes or utility equipment.
- Debris must be placed away from vehicles and other stationary objects.
- Residents must contact 311 to submit a request for storm debris collection.
Private contractor debris not included
Residents who hire a private tree-removal, landscaping or other commercial company must ensure that removal and disposal of the debris are included as part of the company’s service. Private contractors may not cut trees or limbs and leave the debris at the curb for collection by the city. Debris generated by a private contractor will not qualify for collection under the moratorium…