Public vs. Private Junk
After a big storm, the city often runs special curb pickup — but rules and dates are set per storm. Check nola.gov/311 or call 311 (504-539-3266) for current pickup facts. Junk on your own land is yours to get to the curb in most cases.
Sort It Right
Storm pickup nearly always needs split piles. The usual groups are:
- Green: limbs, brush, leaves, logs.
- Build junk: roofing, siding, drywall, boards, fencing.
- Machines: fridges, washers, heaters (doors off or tied).
- Gadgets: TVs, PCs — often a split stream.
- Bad stuff: paint, fuel, gas tanks — never in curb piles. Wait for set drop days.
Mixed piles get skipped. Keep piles off roads, clear of hydrants and power boxes, and out of storm drains.
Bad Goods Need Care
Do not burn junk. Open burns are banned and risky after storms. Keep bad waste out of curb piles. If you fear asbestos (seen in old New Orleans siding, tile, or fill), do not touch it. That needs licensed pros.
When to Hire Haulers
For big loads, huge trees, or junk you cannot move safe, licensed haulers with apt gear are worth it. Get the price in writing (per load or per job — know which). Ask where they dump (true sites only). Never pay all before work is done. Check Louisiana licensing at lslbc.gov for big jobs, and read how to avoid scams.