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 CentralHelping Families Move Forward
Cleanup Project Highlights Since 2007
Fire Incidents
Properties Cleared
Million Tons of Debris Removed
Information for Homeowners
If you have been impacted by wildfire, use caution and see if you qualify for assistance from local or state government.
Removal and Recovery Operations
Wildfire debris must be safely removed and disposed of for communities to recover, rebuild, and avoid further contamination.
Contractors
CalRecycle works with disaster debris removal contractors on projects for services such as removing waste, and tree removal.
For more information contact: Office of Public Affairs, opa@calrecycle.ca.gov