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Tornados: Dealing with Debris

Steps and resources for managing debris in the aftermath of a tornado.

On this page:

If you have questions, contact the TCEQ regional office that serves your county. Also, be sure to check with local authorities for their guidance.

Think Recycling First!

Much of the metal, brick, and other debris left in a tornado's track might be recyclable.

Before you haul anything to a recycling center, call to find out:

What materials they will accept
Whether they will accept materials damaged by a storm
Whether they charge a fee for recycling (This depends on the material and its condition. If the material is valuable enough, they might pay you for it.)

See the TCEQ’s webpage about recycling options.

Remember some of the debris could be recyclable. Follow these guidelines to separate debris according to type and dispose of it properly:

Managing Debris from Declared Disasters
Request for Approval of Temporary Debris Management Site —This form is used by local authorities to ask for permission to set up debris-collection stations.

For more information about debris management, call the TCEQ Debris Hotline at 800-687-7057.

The TCEQ offers this publication (RG-49) to help you interpret the Outdoor Burning Rule (30 TAC 111.201-221).

Many wastes can and should be taken to the landfill.