Hurricane season in Miami-Dade arrives every year, but the damage it brings does not have to. A little planning with your trees and debris can make a big difference in how your home weathers a storm. If you have ever scrambled to prune branches or figure out bulky pickup timing, you are not alone. In this guide, you will learn when to prune, how to schedule 3-1-1 pickups, what to put at the curb, and safety rules that keep you and your property protected. Let’s dive in.
Miami-Dade timeline at a glance
Getting ahead of the peak months is the simplest way to reduce risk and stress.
- June 1 to November 30: official hurricane season, with peaks in August through October.
- January to April: evaluate tree health and consider hiring a certified arborist.
- May to June: complete structural pruning and schedule bulky or vegetative pickups for pre-season removal.
- July and later: keep pruning light and corrective unless there is an emergency.
- Just before a forecasted storm: secure loose items and avoid placing new debris at the curb unless you have a confirmed pickup.
How to prune before storms
Your goal is to reduce wind resistance and remove weak spots without harming the tree.
- Remove dead, diseased, cracked, or rubbing branches.
- Thin selectively to improve structure, focusing on weak or crossing limbs.
- Favor strong branch attachments at the branch collar and well-formed crotches.
- Avoid removing more than about 20 to 30 percent of the live canopy in a single year.
- For palms, remove only dead fronds and loose fruit stalks. Over-thinning can weaken the crown.
What not to do
- Do not top or severely cut back trees. This leads to weak sprouts and decay.
- Do not cut large structural branches incorrectly or leave stubs.
- Do not work near power lines or attempt large removals if you are not trained and insured.
Hire the right professional
If your trees are large or near structures, hire a certified arborist who understands South Florida species and hurricane pruning. Ask for proof of insurance, references, and knowledge of any local permit rules that may apply to protected or specimen trees. Booking early in the season helps you secure the best schedule and pricing.
Schedule bulky and vegetative pickup
In Miami-Dade County, solid waste service is handled either by the County for unincorporated areas or by individual cities for incorporated areas. Confirm who serves your address before you schedule.
- How to schedule: use 3-1-1 by phone, the app, or the online service portal for County service. City residents should contact their public works or solid waste department.
- When to schedule: book several weeks before storms are in the forecast. Collection slots fill quickly during active periods.
- For large removals: hire licensed tree contractors in May or June if you expect heavy limbs or tree sections. Availability tightens as storms approach.
- After a storm: the County or your city may launch special emergency debris operations with separate instructions. Follow the official guidance to ensure pickup.
Place debris correctly
Correct placement keeps streets clear, protects storm drains, and ensures your pile gets collected.
Do’s for placement
- Separate debris types. Keep yard waste in its own pile, away from construction materials, bulky household items, hazardous waste, and electronics. Mixed piles may be rejected.
- Follow size and bundling guidelines. Many programs require branches to be tied in bundles, typically cut to about 4 to 6 feet in length and within diameter limits. If you are unsure, confirm with 3-1-1 or your city page.
- Place piles at the curb on your property side. Do not block sidewalks, roadways, storm drains, or fire hydrants. Leave clear space around mailboxes and utility boxes.
Don’ts for placement
- Do not place debris under or near power lines. Never stack branches where they could contact overhead lines.
- Do not mix prohibited materials. Paints, oils, pesticides, batteries, and appliances with refrigerant need special handling.
- Do not set debris out too early. Many areas limit curb placement to a short window, often 24 to 72 hours before your scheduled pickup. Early piles can obstruct drainage and become hazards.
Timing tips around storms
- Pre-storm: aim to have piles removed days to a few weeks before any predicted landfall. If crews cannot come in time, store cut materials safely off the street.
- Post-storm: follow your county or city’s instructions for emergency collection phases and proper separation to qualify for pickup.
Safety, utilities, and permitting
Tree work can be dangerous, and Miami-Dade has rules that protect both people and property.
- Power lines and utilities: if limbs are near or touching lines, contact your utility provider. Do not attempt trimming within the utility’s clearance zone. Utilities have right-of-way authority and dedicated tree crews.
- Permits and protected trees: removal or major trimming of certain protected, specimen, or historic trees may require permits. Confirm local rules before you cut.
- Insurance and liability: if a diseased or hazardous tree threatens neighboring property, review your homeowner’s policy and local ordinances for your responsibilities.
- Chainsaw and ladder safety: use proper protective gear and avoid complex cutting or rigging if you are not trained. Hire professionals for high or heavy work.
- Post-storm hazards: watch for downed lines, cracked limbs overhead, and debris in gutters and pools. Report downed lines to the utility and hazardous trees to 3-1-1 or your municipality.
Post-storm debris operations and FEMA
After significant storms, Miami-Dade County or your city may activate emergency debris contractors. These operations often begin with clearing public rights-of-way, then proceed through neighborhoods in phases. Rules for placement and separation can differ from regular service, so follow official announcements for your area.
Some debris costs for public entities may be eligible for federal assistance. To protect eligibility for community reimbursement programs, place debris as instructed and keep different materials separated. Keep receipts and records for any private tree work in case your insurer or local officials request documentation.
Quick homeowner checklist
Use this simple plan to stay on track and reduce last-minute stress.
April to June
- Inspect trees with a certified arborist and complete structural pruning.
- Schedule bulky or yard waste pickups through 3-1-1 or your city.
- Identify trees near power lines and coordinate with the utility before any work.
- Check for protected trees and secure permits if required.
Two to three weeks before a forecasted storm
- Make a final pass to remove small, loose branches.
- If pickup is not available before landfall, store cut materials away from the street and storm drains.
- Walk your property and secure outdoor items that could become windborne.
After the storm
- Follow county or city instructions for the emergency debris program.
- Report downed power lines to the utility and hazardous trees to 3-1-1.
- Photograph damage and keep receipts for any contracted removal.
Final thoughts
Consistent, early preparation gives your trees a stronger structure and helps crews clear your street faster when it matters most. By pruning thoughtfully, scheduling pickups ahead of time, and placing debris correctly, you reduce hazards and protect your home’s value. If you need a curated list of local pros or would like guidance on pre-listing storm readiness, reach out.
Ready to plan your next move with a steady hand at your side? Connect with Unknown Company for concierge guidance and a seamless experience.
FAQs
When should you prune trees for hurricane season in Miami-Dade?
- Complete major structural pruning in May or June, then limit work to minor corrective cuts from July onward unless there is an emergency.
How do you schedule bulky waste pickup in unincorporated Miami-Dade?
- Use the 3-1-1 phone line, app, or online portal to request vegetative or bulky pickup. If you live in a city, contact that city’s public works or solid waste department.
What can you place at the curb before a storm in Miami-Dade?
- Only set out vegetative debris during your allowed window and keep it separate from construction materials, household bulky items, hazardous waste, and electronics. Mixed piles may be rejected.
Do you need a permit to remove a tree in Miami-Dade?
- You may need a permit for protected, specimen, or historic trees. Verify local rules before removing or heavily trimming any large tree.
Who trims trees near power lines in Miami-Dade?
- Contact your utility provider for trees touching or near lines. Do not attempt trimming within the utility clearance zone; utilities have designated crews for this work.
