Published: October 13, 2024
Bartow, Fla. (Oct. 13, 2024) — Hurricane Milton debris collection will begin in Polk County on Monday, Oct. 14, and residents are encouraged to clean up storm damage and move debris to the curb for collection. However, it’s important to note that an extra step is required for Polk County residents who live on private roads or in gated communities.
Polk County cannot legally collect debris from residents on private roads and gated communities until designated Homeowner’s Association officers or road owners sign and return a “RIGHT OF ENTRY AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT FOR DEBRIS REMOVAL” form. This is a Federal Emergency Management Agency mandate.
Once Polk County receives the signed “RIGHT OF ENTRY AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT FOR DEBRIS REMOVAL,” this gives the county’s contracted debris haulers a right of entry to the roadways for the purpose of removing and clearing hurricane-damaged debris.
“How do you know if you live on a private road in Polk County?” said Polk County Real Estate Services Administrator Wade Allen. “Most likely, if your street sign is white rather than green, you live on a private road.”
For the Right of Entry form or more information please call (863) 534-2580 or email realestate@polk-county.net.
If private road is listed here, a form does not need to be submitted. https://www.polk-county.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Private-Road-List-ADA.pdf.