CT Views

The City of Bristol is offering a temporary, free Storm Brush & Woody Debris Assistance Program in July for storm-affected residents.
However, this program strictly covers tree limbs, branches, and woody vegetation generated by the July 4th storm. General household bulk waste (furniture, mattresses, appliances) is not included in this temporary storm program.
The specifics for both storm debris and general bulk pickup in July are outlined below:
Curbside Collection: Free DPW curbside collection of storm-related brush and woody debris from Monday, July 13, through Friday, July 24, 2026.
Eligibility: Targeted at heavily affected neighborhoods (bounded generally by Maple Ave, Jerome Ave, James P. Casey Rd, and Hart St). Residents outside these boundaries can request assistance by calling Public Works at (860) 584-6125.
Drop-off: Free disposal of storm-generated brush at the City Transfer Station (685 Lake Ave) through Monday, July 20. A permit is not required; simply bring a valid driver's license.
Standard Bulky Waste Pickup:
If you have general household bulk waste, you can schedule your standard annual pickup. Each residential property receives 1 free bulk pickup per calendar year. Additional pickups cost $25 each.

⚠️ Northwest CT Storm Recovery Resources ⚠️
Our community is still recovering from the devastating July 4th storm. CT Views has compiled the following information to help residents stay safe, avoid scams, and access available resources.

🌳 Beware of Storm-Chasing Contractors
Unfortunately, disasters often attract dishonest contractors looking to take advantage of homeowners.

Before hiring anyone:
✅ Verify they are properly licensed and insured in Connecticut.
✅ Call your insurance company first so you understand what your policy covers.
✅ Research the company and read online reviews.
✅ Get written estimates.

Be cautious if a contractor:
❌ Shows up at your door without being contacted.
❌ Demands payment upfront.
❌ Pressures you to make an immediate decision.
❌ Offers to handle your insurance claim.
❌ Cannot provide proof of licensing or insurance.

Some reputable local contractors include:
• CB Tree Services
• SJ Winn
• KDF Tree
• Walker Electrical
• Eastside Electrical
• Lionel Asselin Building & Remodeling

🗑️ City of Torrington Storm Cleanup Schedule

Storm-Related Woody Vegetation Collection
📅 July 13–17
• Place debris at the curb by Sunday, July 12.
• A Storm Bulk Waste Permit is required.
• Accepted items include branches, brush, shrubs, leaves, bagged yard waste, and storm-damaged logs.

Storm-Related Bulk Waste Collection
📅 July 20–24
• One pickup truck load per household.
• A Storm Bulk Waste Permit is required.
• Accepted items include storm-damaged lawn furniture, fencing, and other household items damaged by the storm.

Please keep woody vegetation separate from bulk waste and avoid blocking sidewalks, roads, fire hydrants, utility poles, or storm drains.

For questions, contact the City of Torrington Public Works Department at (860) 489-2234.

🏘️ What About Other Nearby Towns?

As of today, Torrington is the only community in our area to announce a formal special storm debris collection schedule. Harwinton, Burlington, Plainville, Bristol, and other neighboring towns continue recovery efforts, but many have not yet announced special curbside pickup programs. If you live outside Torrington, check your town's official website or social media pages for the latest storm cleanup information, as additional services may be announced in the coming days.

🥫 SNAP Food Replacement Benefits

If you receive SNAP benefits and lost food because your power was out for at least four continuous hours, you may qualify for replacement benefits.

📅 Deadline to report food losses: Tuesday, July 14, 2026

To file a claim:
📞 Call 1-855-626-6632
or visit your local Connecticut Department of Social Services office.

Replacement benefits may cover the value of spoiled food, up to your household's monthly SNAP benefit amount.

❤️ Please share this post so friends, family, and neighbors who were affected by the storm can find the help they need. Together, Northwest Connecticut will recover stronger than ever.