All debris removal pilot alternatives can be used individually or with any other pilot alternatives. Section 428 also authorizes FEMA to make awards for debris removal on the basis of fixed estimates and to allow sub-recipients to use excess funds from those awards for approved purposes. Special note: FEMA is not implementing these procedures as part of the pilot at this time, but continues to work to improve debris estimating methodologies and will consider implementing these procedures in the future.
If a sub-recipient elects to implement any of the alternative procedures, FEMA requires them to sign an acknowledgement of program requirements. This letter will be attached to the Project Worksheet (PW) developed for any debris removal eligible activities. Because FEMA has several versions of policy guidance that apply based on the date of the disaster —with each potentially superseding the previous — it is important for sub-recipients to reference the appropriate version that applies to their declared disaster.
For instance, Version 3 of the Public Assistance Alternative Procedures for debris removal is applicable to disasters declared between June 28, 2015 and June 27, 2016. Version 4, published on June 28, 2016, supersedes Version 3 and is applicable to all disasters declared on or after that date. Version 5, the most current, extends the program for one year to June 27, 2018 and makes additional program guidance changes to include the limitations related to the sliding scale provision.
Under the most current version FEMA will only authorize the sliding scale provision in events with significant debris impacts,...
Debris Removal Work (Days from Start of Incident Period) Federal Cost Share
1 through 30 85%
31 through 90 80%
91 through 180 75%
Federal dollars will NOT be provided for debris removal after 180 days (Unless an extension is authorized by FEMA HQ)