Residents in Chatham County are being warned to be on high alert for potential scams related to storm debris removal. As the community continues to recover from Hurricane Helen, county officials have emphasized that no County employees will come to your home requesting payment for debris or tree removal services. Anyone posing as a government worker and asking for money should be reported immediately to local authorities.

Scam Alert: No, Chatham County Officials Will Not Request Payment to Remove Storm Debris

October 4, 2024
1 min read

Residents in Chatham County are being warned to be on high alert for potential scams related to storm debris removal. As the community continues to recover from Hurricane Helen, county officials have emphasized that no County employees will come to your home requesting payment for debris or tree removal services. Anyone posing as a government worker and asking for money should be reported immediately to local authorities.

Storm Debris Removal Guidelines

In the wake of Hurricane Helen, Chatham County has outlined guidelines for debris removal, particularly for residents in Unincorporated Chatham. Residents are reminded to separate vegetative debris, such as tree branches, from regular household waste. Failure to follow these guidelines could slow down the collection process.

Items that will not be collected during the debris removal include:

  • Hazardous Household Waste: Items like paint, pesticides, and cleaners cannot be placed at the curb for pickup.
  • Normal Household Trash: Regular garbage services will follow their usual schedule, and this type of waste should not be mixed with storm debris.

Residents are also advised to avoid placing debris in locations that could obstruct services, such as near sidewalks, mailboxes, or fences.

Crisis Cleanup Assistance

For residents who need help clearing storm debris from their property, Crisis Cleanup is offering a free service. Volunteers and trained workers are available to assist with the removal of fallen trees, branches, and other debris. To access this service, residents can call the Crisis Cleanup hotline at 1-844-965-1386.

Chatham County is urging residents to be vigilant and follow the official guidelines as the community works to recover from the storm.