Norman Storm Debris Pickup Extended Through September
Norman Extends July 4 Storm Debris Pickup Through September
The City of Norman is extending its July 4 storm debris collection through late September after cleanup crews encountered more than twice the amount of debris originally expected across the city.
Crews have already collected approximately 75,000 cubic yards of storm debris, far exceeding the initial estimate of 35,000 cubic yards. The cleanup has now cost the city more than $1.5 million, with nine grapple trucks working 10-hour shifts seven days a week to clear neighborhoods.
The extended operation will now overlap with Norman’s annual Fall Residential Cleanup, which begins September 26, creating two separate collection efforts residents will need to keep separated at the curb.
Norman Storm Debris Pickup Extended After Cleanup Volume Doubles
The Norman storm debris pickup was initially expected to be completed by August 6 following the severe July 4 weather, but the amount of damage across all eight city wards significantly extended that timeline.
City crews and contractors have collected about 75,000 cubic yards of debris, more than double the original forecast.
The massive cleanup has also required a significant financial commitment. Norman has spent more than $1.5 million from city reserve funds on the operation as crews continue working throughout the community.
Currently, nine grapple trucks are operating 10-hour shifts, seven days a week to complete the work.
The City of Norman says crews will continue making rounds through September and residents should place eligible debris at the front public right-of-way where collection equipment can safely reach it.
Only residential properties are eligible for the city’s curbside storm debris collection. Commercial, industrial and institutional properties are responsible for arranging their own debris disposal.
Norman Residents Asked to Follow Storm Debris Placement Rules
With thousands of cubic yards still being collected, Norman officials are asking residents to follow specific guidelines to help grapple truck crews move efficiently through neighborhoods.
Branches and other storm materials should be cut into lengths of 12 feet or shorter. Vegetative debris, including tree limbs and branches, should also be kept separate from construction and demolition materials.
Residents should not place debris near mailboxes, water meters, utility lines or other obstructions that could prevent equipment from safely reaching the pile.
Vehicles should also be moved away from curbside debris. If a vehicle blocks access, crews may be forced to bypass the property and return later.
Storm debris should not be placed in alleys. The city says heavy collection equipment cannot safely navigate many alleys because of narrow spaces and overhead utility lines.
The Norman Public Works Department oversees city infrastructure and services that include streets, sanitation and other operations involved in maintaining the community.
Residents with questions specifically about storm debris collection can contact Norman’s Streets Division at 405-329-2524.
Fall Residential Cleanup Begins September 26 in Norman
The extended storm operation will soon overlap with another major citywide collection program.
Norman’s Fall Residential Cleanup begins Saturday, September 26, and continues for four consecutive Saturdays as different sections of the city receive scheduled service.
City officials are emphasizing that storm debris and Fall Residential Cleanup items must remain in separate piles because they are being handled as separate collection operations.
The fall program allows eligible residents to dispose of certain bulky household items that are not part of normal weekly trash service. Residents should follow the scheduled collection date for their area and the city’s guidelines for eligible materials.
Full schedules and disposal requirements are available through the City of Norman Fall Cleanup program.
Questions about the Fall Residential Cleanup can be directed to the Norman Sanitation Division at 405-329-1023.
For residents still waiting on July 4 storm debris removal, the extension means crews are continuing to work through neighborhoods rather than ending the special collection operation. With the volume already more than double initial projections, city officials now expect the Norman storm debris cleanup to continue through late September.
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