What is private property debris removal?

Removing debris from private property is the responsibility of the individual homeowner, with the help of insurance agreements and the assistance of volunteer agencies. Most insurance policies have specific coverage for the removal of debris and the demolition of severely damaged structures. Municipal inspectors have conducted multiple raids in the area to identify eligible properties and have worked with homeowners in the process of submitting their applications. Charles Parish officials announced this week that the parish has been approved for a private property debris removal (PPDR) program through FEMA, which will cover the removal and demolition of debris from private properties.

To be eligible for the program, debris removal must be in the public interest, which means that it eliminates immediate threats to public life, health and safety or eliminates immediate threats of significant damage to improved public or private property. The costs to remove debris related to the incident (including, but not limited to, plant debris, structural components, sand, mud, silt, gravel, rocks, boulders, vehicles and boats) from improved public properties and public rights of way (ROW), including Federal aid highways are reimbursable. The program, which involves the removal of potentially eligible storm-related debris from private properties and the demolition of eligible storm-damaged homes, has been open to applications since last summer.