Watauga County is offering free debris removal after Hurricane Helene, assisting residents with hazardous trees, limbs & unsafe structures.
WATAUGA COUNTY, N.C. — Watauga County officials announced a free program to assist residents and businesses in clearing storm debris and unsafe structures caused by Hurricane Helene.Â
The Private and Commercial Property Debris Removal and Demolition Program is now open for applications, providing crucial support to those affected by the storm.
The program offers services such as removing hazardous limbs, trees, or mixed debris near commonly used areas or waterways and demolishing structures deemed unsafe or unrecoverable. Concrete slabs may also be removed if they pose a threat to safety. To qualify, property owners must complete a Right of Entry (ROE) form, legally permitting contractors to assess eligibility and perform necessary work. All services will be completed at no cost to residents.
Residents can apply online at the county’s portal, call the dedicated PPDR hotline at 1-833-468-6073, or visit one of two application centers. The Western Watauga Community Center in Sugar Grove is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Saturday hours from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Alternatively, the Multi-Agency Resource Center in Boone operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
This initiative aims to address lingering hazards from Helene, which caused widespread damage across Watauga County. The program prioritizes health and safety by targeting debris that impacts waterways or structures at risk of collapse.
County officials encourage all affected property owners to act promptly to ensure their eligibility for assistance. For more information, visit the official portal or contact the PPDR call center during its extended daily hours from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
