Disaster Debris Recovery Operations

California has a program to work with local governments to help clean up after disasters like wildfires and debris flow mudslides.

California’s Wildfire Debris Removal Program Cleans Up After Climate-Fueled Wildfires

Since 2007, CalRecycle has supported communities impacted by wildfires and other disasters by safely disposing of contaminated debris at no out-of-pocket cost to property owners, leaving properties safe to rebuild.

CalRecycle is not assigned cleanup of every disaster in California. When tasked with a cleanup, CalRecycle works with the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and federal, state, and local partners to clear debris from properties damaged by state and federally-declared disasters.

Local Government Resources

Jurisdictions must report annually to CalRecycle their progress on recycling. They may deduct disaster waste from the landfilled waste reports, so they are not penalized for it.

Local Government Central

Helping Families Move Forward

Cleanup Project Highlights Since 2007

Information for Homeowners

If you have been impacted by wildfire, use caution and see if you qualify for assistance from local or state government.

 

 

property cleared of disaster debris

Removal and Recovery Operations

Wildfire debris must be safely removed and disposed of for communities to recover, rebuild, and avoid further contamination.

 

disaster debris cleanup

Contractors

CalRecycle works with disaster debris removal contractors on projects for services such as removing waste, and tree removal.

 

For more information contact, the Office of Public Affairs, opa@calrecycle.ca.gov