Hurricane Season Prep: Clearing Yard Debris & Junk

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and South Florida homeowners know preparation is everything. Much of the damage from a storm comes not only from wind and water, but from loose objects and debris turned into projectiles. Clearing your property early is one of the simplest, most effective things you can do.

Before the season: clear early, not at the last minute

Many South Florida municipalities ask residents not to trim trees or put out large debris piles once a storm watch or warning has been issued - collection usually stops, and those piles become hazards. The best time to clear is well before a storm is on the map.

Your pre-season checklist

1. Trim trees and palms. Remove dead fronds, coconuts and weak or overhanging branches - especially near the roof, windows and power lines.
2. Haul away old junk. Broken patio furniture, old grills, loose lumber, unused planters and garage overflow are all potential projectiles.
3. Secure or remove sheds’ contents. Store tools and loose items indoors.
4. Check drainage. Low spots that collect water can be corrected with fill dirt and grading.
5. Refresh beds wisely. Shredded mulches knit together and resist washing out better than loose nuggets, and decorative rock near windows should be avoided in high-wind areas.

After a storm: safety first

• Stay clear of downed power lines and report them to your utility.
• Photograph damage for insurance before you clean up.
• Follow your city or county’s debris rules. Many ask residents to separate debris into vegetative (branches, fronds), construction and demolition (fencing, drywall), appliances, and household junk.
• Do not block storm drains, fire hydrants or mailboxes with debris piles.

When to call a pro

Municipal pick-up after a major storm can take weeks. A private junk-removal crew can clear your property in a single visit - lifting, loading, hauling and disposing of everything responsibly, so you can focus on getting back to normal.

IMTUR provides pre-season clean-outs, yard debris removal and post-storm clean-up across Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Martin and St. Lucie counties, at a fair price that works for you. Learn about our junk & trash removal service or request a free estimate.