Columbus announces tree fee moratorium following widespread storm damage
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- Columbus waives tree debris fees for storm-damaged residential areas through October 12, 2026.
- Residents must cut limbs to four feet, call 311 for pickup, and debris must meet city requirements.
Following widespread storm damage across parts of Columbus-Muscogee County, the Columbus Consolidated Government’s Department of Public Works has announced a temporary moratorium on Tree for Fee charges for eligible residential storm debris.
The moratorium began Monday, September 21, 2026, and will remain in effect through Monday, October 12, 2026. During that period, eligible storm debris within the designated collection area will be collected at no charge.
The storm-affected area is generally bounded by: * North: Columbus-Manchester Expressway * East: Woodruff Farm Road * West: Macon Road * South: St. Mary’s Road
The moratorium applies only to residential properties located within the designated storm-affected area. Residents are encouraged to review the city’s storm collection map to determine whether their property qualifies.
To qualify for collection, the debris must have resulted from the recent storm and meet the city’s requirements. Tree limbs must be cut into pieces no longer than four feet, with branches no more than six inches in diameter. Debris must be placed at the curb and cannot block streets, sidewalks, storm drains, fire hydrants, mailboxes or utility equipment.
Residents should also keep debris away from vehicles and other stationary objects. Residents must contact 311 to submit a request for storm debris collection.
The city is also reminding residents that debris generated by private contractors will not qualify for the moratorium. Anyone who hires a private tree-removal, landscaping or other commercial company should make sure the company’s service includes the removal and disposal of the debris.
Private contractors may not cut trees or limbs and leave the debris at the curb for the city to collect.
Public Works officials are asking residents to be patient as crews work through the storm debris across the affected area. The department said crews will be redirected from regular daily operations, which could result in delays to some routine services.
Debris that does not meet the city's requirements will not be collected and will remain the responsibility of the property owner.
After October 12, 2026, regular Tree for Fee charges will resume.
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