County of Simcoe Release - County Council provides further support to help municipalities with ice storm clean up

County Council today approved further support to enhance brush collection across communities impacted by the March 27th ice storm, as well as other measures to assist residents and communities in need.

“On behalf of myself and County Council, our thoughts are with everyone impacted by the ice storm,” said 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.”

Free brush drop-off extended to end of May

• Brush drop-off fees have been waived at all County of Simcoe waste sites until the end of May 2025 (extended from April 28), and timing will be revisited as required. This is the fastest way for residents to remove debris from their property, especially large brush.  
• 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. Root balls will have a charge applied, as they require additional processing.  
• For a full list of County waste drop-off facilities, including details on expanded operating days and temporary brush drop-off sites, visit our website. 

Curbside brush collection updates:

Collecting smaller brush, branches and limbs:

• Regular leaf and yard waste trucks are currently collecting smaller brush piles only in the hardest-hit areas of the County.  
• These trucks can only collect branches/limbs up to 2 meters in length and 10 centimeters in diameter and we ask that piles be manageable for one person to clear. 
• Bundling of brush is NOT required, but it’s preferred as it will help us help our communities faster! 
• TIP: Sort your debris into larger and smaller brush piles. Leaf and Yard Waste crews will collect what they can when servicing your property, and crews will return at a later time for larger branches and limbs. Pease remain patient as this may take months to clear.  
   

Collecting larger brush, branches and limbs:

• The County is actively procuring additional support with our municipalities to bring in resources and equipment to collect and process larger brush debris. 
• Larger limbs brought to curb and materials on right of ways will be collected and processed in time. 
• TIP: Sort your debris into larger and smaller brush piles. Leaf and Yard Waste crews will collect what they can when servicing your property, and crews will return at a later time for larger branches and limbs. Pease remain patient as this may take months to clear. 
   

Important storm-related reminders:

• Delays to Regular Leaf and Yard Waste Collection: Leaf and Yard Waste Collection, starting April 14, will experience delays due to prioritizing ice storm cleanup. Updates will be shared via the Simcoe County Collects App, social media, and simcoe.ca. 
• Spoiled Foods: Dispose of spoiled foods in the organics green cart, with plastic and other packaging removed. 
• Forest Safety: Avoid County Forest trails and properties until damage is assessed and cleared. Loose and broken limbs can fall at any time. 

For up-to-date information on storm-related impacts and services affecting the County of Simcoe, please visit simcoe.ca/icestorm or download the Simcoe County Collects App for waste and brush disposal information. 

News Release Issued by the County of Simcoe, April 8, 2025. For more information, visit their website.