Tupelo Residents Reminded of Brush, Debris Collection Guidelines

The City of Tupelo is reinforcing its policies surrounding solid waste disposal, particularly tree trimmings, brush, and construction debris, to ensure community safety and cleanliness.

According to Chapter 23.5 of the City of Tupelo Code of Ordinances, residential customers are responsible for preparing tree trimmings and similar materials for collection. All brush must be cut into lengths no longer than six feet and placed within five feet of the street or sidewalk in a uniform, organized manner. Grass clippings, hedge and shrubbery trimmings must be containerized in a plastic bag not exceeding 30 gallons.

Importantly, brush should not be mixed with trash or other debris. If mixed, it will not be collected until properly separated. Furthermore, property owners who hire individuals to trim or remove trees and shrubs are required to ensure the resulting brush is removed from the property. Failure to comply may result in a court citation.

The ordinance also clarifies that the City and its contractors are not responsible for removing construction debris resulting from renovation or demolition. Property owners must ensure all such waste is cleared by contractors immediately after their work is completed.

Tupelo’s Public Works Department manages brush and large debris pick-up through a 16-route system, with each route serviced monthly. However, pickups may be delayed due to seasonal demand, weather events, holidays, or staffing issues. Weekly route updates are posted on social media each Friday, and residents may also call Public Works at (662) 841-6457 for more information.

Brush will not be collected from commercial buildings, apartment complexes, vacant lots, construction sites, or properties serviced by commercial landscaping or tree companies.

To ensure safe pickup, brush should be placed in areas that do not block traffic, sidewalks, or access to utilities like fire hydrants or water meters.

For animal-related issues, small domestic animals should be reported to Animal Control at (662) 871-1963. Large animals obstructing city streets, such as cows or horses, fall under Public Works’ jurisdiction at (662) 841-6457.

For more details, residents can reference the city’s ordinances or contact Tupelo Public Works directly.