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County of Simcoe offers free drop-off of storm-related brush and debris

April 17, 2025   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

County of Simcoe Council has approved further support to communities to help with the clean-up after the March 27 ice storm that caused damage around the region.

“On behalf of myself and County Council, our thoughts are with everyone impacted by the ice storm,” said Simcoe County Warden Basil Clarke. “The damage across our communities was devastating, and it will take significant time to get everything cleaned up and for us to all get back on our feet. I’ve been amazed by the resilience and patience of our residents, and in awe of the many organizations, neighbours and allies that have stepped up to work around the clock to restore power, clean up, and support those in need. Thank you to everyone for their dedication, support and continued patience.”

To help with the clean-up, brush drop-off fees have been waived at all County of Simcoe waste sites until the end of May 2025. This period was extended from the original date of April 28.

The final date may be changed as required.

This is the fastest way for residents to remove debris from their property.

This applies to all residents, businesses, and municipalities in the County. Private debris contractors will not be charged unless the material is clearly unrelated to the storm.

Rootballs will have a charge applied as they require additional processing.

Regular leaf and yard waste trucks are currently collecting smaller brush piles in the hardest-hit areas of the County. These trucks can only collect branches and limbs up to two metres in length and 10 centimetres in diameter.

Piles should be manageable for one person to handle.

Bundling of the brush is not required, however, it is preferred as it will make collection easier.

Sort your debris into larger and smaller brush piles. Leaf and Yard Waste crews will collect what they can when servicing your property.

Crews will return at a later time for larger branches and limbs. This may take several months. 

The County is actively procuring additional support to bring in resources and equipment to collect and process larger brush debris.

Larger limbs brought to the curb or on right of ways will be processed in due time.

The County is also cautioning residents to avoid County Forest trails and properties until damage is assessed and cleared.

There is a loose and broken limb hazard in treed areas. 

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