The attached FAQ provides excellent information for Diamondhead residents.  However, there are some fine points that need to be clarified.  The following details came from a meeting with Corps of Engineer representatives explaining FEMA directives.   

• The decision to remove debris from private property with an R.O.E. will be determined on a case by case basis, with the criteria being that the debris creates an immediate threat to lives, public health, and safety.
• Following those criteria, the removal contractors will NOT go on any undeveloped/wooded lots to remove any leaning or damaged trees.  If the property owner removes such trees to the roadside, they will be picked up.
• Contractors will NOT remove debris placed on the roadside that came from undeveloped lots cleared for building.

In summary, FEMA does not intend to remove trees and undergrowth from the roadside or median if it came from undeveloped lots cleared for development.  Some property owners and developers have done this, and up until now the contractors have unwittingly picked it up.  Now that FEMA is aware of it, they have told us they will not pick up such debris. 

With that being the case, property owners and developers clearing a lot for building should have the debris removed to an approved landfill.  If not, and the P.O.A. has to pick it up, the property owner or builder will be billed and fined.  It will be cheaper to have the debris moved to a landfill in the first place.

Another fine point regards shingles.  FEMA will allow for shingles blown from a roof by Katrina to be picked up.  However, they will not pick up shingles removed by a roofer making repairs.  Roofers should remove and properly dispose of them, as that is the normal practice and included in their price.  Once again, if the POA is faced with having to remove these shingles, the property owner will be billed and fined.  Have the roofer do it, it will be less costly.