How to Get Rid of Brush

Brush Collection

• 1

  Check your local government's website or municipal office to determine if it conducts curbside brush collection or has a drop-off point, such as a local landfill.

• 2

  Verify that you're eligible to have your brush collected. Some local governments include brush collection as part of their solid-waste-collection fees.

• 3

  Determine what types of materials are acceptable for collection. Tree branches and woody plants are generally allowed, but leaves and grass clippings may be excluded. Items such as lumber and soil may also be prohibited.

• 4

  Find out the days and times of brush collection. Some cities schedule curbside collection on different days in each neighborhood. Landfills may only accept brush on certain days.

• 5

  Review the guidelines for brush collection. Cities may require brush to placed in specific containers, such as bags or recycling bins, or left in loose piles alongside the curb.

Backyard Burning of Debris

• 6

  Call your local fire department or state department of forestry to determine if burning brush on your property is allowed and whether a permit is needed. There may also be a better alternative, such as brush collection at the curbside or using a local landfill. Review the rules outlined by local fire agencies for burning brush.

• 7

  Check the weather conditions. Fire agencies may prohibit burning under certain weather conditions, such as drought. Avoid burning during strong winds, which can carry sparks away and start a fire in another area.

• 8

  Choose an appropriate burn site away from other vegetation, overhanging limbs and power lines, and buildings and cars. Clear the ground around the burn site. Keep a shovel and a hose or a fire extinguisher nearby to control the fire.

• 9

  Use a burn barrel to reduce the risk of the fire spreading to other areas. Check the barrel to ensure that it's in good condition and contains proper ventilation. Place a wire screen on top to contain sparks.

• 10

  Stay with the fire until it's completely out. Drown the burn area with water, turn over the ashes with a shovel and drown the area again. Check the area over the next few days to make sure the fire is out.