City launches Vegetation Amnesty Days to prepare for hurricane season

In a proactive move to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season, the City of West Palm Beach has launched its Vegetation Amnesty Days, running from April 28 to May 9, 2025. This initiative allows residents to trim and dispose of excess vegetation from their properties without incurring any additional charges from the city.

The program encourages homeowners to cut back vegetation that could become hazardous during storms. By reducing the amount of loose debris, the city aims to minimize potential damage from flying branches and other materials that could disrupt power lines or cause injury. City officials emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that trimming vegetation before a storm can significantly lessen the risks associated with high winds and heavy rains.

Residents are advised to prepare their yard waste by bagging grass clippings and placing larger branches at the curb in manageable sizes—no longer than four feet and no thicker than two inches in diameter. This ensures that city crews can efficiently collect the debris without causing further damage during the pickup process. The city also recommends that residents avoid cutting down healthy trees excessively, focusing instead on pruning to maintain their health.

In addition to the Vegetation Amnesty Days, the city is gearing up for its annual hurricane preparedness drill scheduled for May 15. This event will involve multiple city departments collaborating to simulate various storm scenarios, ensuring that all teams and equipment are ready to respond effectively when the hurricane season begins.

Overall, the Vegetation Amnesty Days serve as a critical reminder for residents to take proactive steps in safeguarding their homes and communities ahead of potential storms, while the city's ongoing preparations reflect a commitment to maintaining safety and readiness during hurricane season.