You love having fresh Christmas trees, garlands and wreaths, but now the holiday season is over. Christmas Tree Disposal and decoration disposal should happen safely and responsibly, but how?
Most communities have drop-off locations for garlands and trees or they provide scheduled pick-up service. Call your community’s environmental service (city trash or yard debris service) and ask these questions:
When can you put your tree on the curb for pickup?
Do you need to put the tree in a bag? (You can find tree disposal bags at Home Depot or Lowes.)
Are there any size restrictions? (For example, the city of San Diego requires that trees over four feet in length be cut in half.)
Are there special disposal requirements for flocked or glitter-sprayed trees?
Your homeowner’s association may have regulations about tree disposals, so look at your covenants or call a board member for guidance.
If you’re eco-conscious, you can take your tree to your local county recycling center where it can be ground into chips for animal habitats or mulch.
Look for a local community group that may be sponsoring a tree removal fundraiser, such as the Boy Scouts. It will cost you a little more, but it’s all for a good cause. Check your local newspaper or official city website for other disposal options.
Before you take the tree outside, double-check for overlooked wire, tinsel, ornaments, hooks and lights. Don’t burn branches in the fireplace if the tree has any chemical retardants or preservatives.
