Published: February 21, 2025
Bartow, Fla. (Feb. 21, 2025) — As the amount of debris left by Hurricane Milton dwindles, the debris hotline number for residents to call for pick up will be discontinued on Monday, Feb. 24.
Residents with any remaining debris needing to be removed will need to call the Polk County Roads and Drainage Division at (863) 535-2200 to arrange for pick up.
Polk County haulers remain dedicated to debris removal recovery efforts and appreciates the community’s support as teams continue clearing debris.
“It’s been an extensive operation with crews working diligently to pick up any remaining debris,’’ said Deputy County Manager John Bohde. He added that if residents have small piles of debris remaining, putting it in garbage bags and placing them curbside makes it easier for crews to pick up.
Bohde said crews have cleared approximately 95% of all roads.
In total, Polk County has collected 24,415 loads of debris totaling 911,341 cubic yards with daily collections continuing at a steady pace.
“When you look at the total amount of debris collected, you really get a feel for just how hard-hit Polk County was by Hurricane Milton,’’ Bohde said.
Bohde said he appreciated all the hard work haulers have put in working seven days a week during the more than four months of clearing debris left behind from Hurricane Milton.