FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to participate in the clean up or can I just take the pledge?

Either/or! Just pledge, or pledge and take action. Its up to you! Both are options when you RSVP.



Can I lead my own clean up or do I have to sign up for a clean up zone?

There are a limited number of pre-established zones that volunteers can sign up to join. Each zone will have a sign in/supply tent, leader, and boundaries for their clean up area. If the zone is listed on the sign up there is still room to sign up for that specific zone.

If you want to lead a clean up at specific area that is not listed as a zone, please sign up under the group sign up and indicate the location you are interested in cleaning up.



What should I wear and bring with me?

  • Reusable water bottle
  • Snack
  • Dress for the weather
  • Close-toed shoes
  • Sun/bug protection



What will be provided at each clean up zone?

  • Gloves
  • Safety vest (required for sites with parking lots, streets, and sidewalks)
  • Litter pickers
  • Buckets
  • Compostable trash bags
  • First Aid kit
  • Sunscreen/Bug protection
  • ICC Data forms
  • Freebies!
  • Leadership & safety information



What if I can’t make it to “The BIG Clean Up” on October 16th?

Groups, families, and individuals who aren’t able to participate on Oct 16th can plan a self-led clean up anytime the week before. Supplies and data forms will be provided.



What is the International Coastal Clean Up and what kind of data are we collecting?

Each year the Ocean Conservancy hosts the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) series through the months of September and October. This global cleanup initiative engages volunteers in the removal of trash and debris from the world’s waterways. During this cleanup volunteers will assist with the removal of trash and collection of data to help assess the types of trash and total volume present around the world. In partnership with Keep Pinellas Beautiful we will be participating in the ICC, contributing our findings to help identify the source of debris and minimize its impact on our local environment.

All necessary tools to participate in the ICC data collection will be provided at the registration stations.



Do I need to wear a mask?

Masks are not required for this event, but please respect those who are wearing one and maintain your distance.



What COVID precautions can I expect on-site?

Hand sanitizer will be provided at each check in site. All tools and supplies will be sanitized before each use.



What about the Delta Variant?

Based on current regulations and with limited group sizes, we have determined this clean up can safely take place. If regulations or event details change at any time, all participants will be notified.



I consider myself at higher-risk of COVID-19 complications, should I come to a volunteer event?

It is not recommended that individuals who are at higher risk of COVID-19 complications participate in this clean up. If you are interested in hosting a self-led clean up anytime the week before the main event, please register your family and supplies and data forms will be provided.



Can I show up to volunteer without signing up?

No. All volunteers must sign up through the official RSVP. Due to parking and supply limitations and COVID-19 guidelines, individuals who do not sign up beforehand, will not be allowed to volunteer.



Who can participate?

This clean up is great for families, groups, and volunteers of all ages! Clean up zones that are especially family friendly – beaches and parks - are labeled as such on the sign up page.



How much experience do I need?

None! Come prepared to meet new people, explore new places, learn new information, and give back to our community.



Are there restrooms on-site?

A few clean ups sites have public restrooms available such as some of the beach zones and rec centers. There is no guarantee a restroom will be on-site, so please come prepared.



Can I arrive late/leave early?

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the event to allow for plenty of time to find parking, walk to the meeting location, and sign in. A brief orientation and safety talk will be given at the start of the event, and we want to make sure all volunteers are fully oriented on project details, safety, boundaries, etc. before they start the clean up.

If you need to leave early, please let your site leader know in advance and sign out before you leave, so we know you got back safely.



Where do I park?

A confirmation email will be sent several days prior to all who have signed up for the event. The email will contain a meeting address, parking information, meeting location, and anything else you need to know.



Do I need to RSVP?

Yes, you must RSVP in advance as group size is limited. Volunteers should RSVP through the official RSVP page so we can email you important information prior to the event and prepare the appropriate amount of supplies. Project details are subject to change based on unforeseen circumstances, and we want to be able to let you know.



Minor under 18?

Volunteers under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian sign them in on the morning of the clean up. Parent/guardian does not need to stay on site if the volunteer is 16 or older.



Minor 15 and under?

Volunteers 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult throughout the entire opportunity and must have their parent/guardian sign a liability form on site.



It's raining! Are we still going to volunteer?

Absolutely! We will be on-site rain or shine. Wear weather appropriate clothing so you can stay dry during the opportunity. We want you to be comfortable and enjoy your experience.

**Note** Event may be canceled in the event of extreme weather - lightning, heavy rain, or other emergencies.



May I bring my pet?

Pets should be left at home as they are not allowed in many locations and may cause distractions and/or safety hazards.



When is the last day I can sign up to volunteer?

You may sign up until two days prior to the event. We typically send out a confirmation email with details about the event, and we want to make sure you receive any pertinent information.



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