How To Get Rid of Your Old Christmas Tree

It’s time to admit that the holidays are officially over. So if you’re still hanging on to that Christmas tree you hauled up your three-floor walk-up, this is your sign to dispose of it before it becomes a fire hazard.

Note: Most jurisdictions around the DMV recycle old trees into mulch, so make sure to take all the ornaments and tinsel off before bringing yours to the curb.

DC

• Residents can bring trees and greenery to the Fort Totten or Benning Road Transfer Stations. Alternatively, put them where your recycling is collected between Jan. 13 and Feb. 2, and the city will pick them up and turn them into mulch.
• If you live in an apartment building or condo, you should contact the property manager for collection information.

Virginia

• Arlington: Put your tree on the curb before 6 a.m. on trash collection day between Jan. 2 through Jan. 12. Or call for a drop-off appointment.
• Alexandria: Tree collection runs until Jan. 31. Put your tree out with the rest of your trash on your normal collection day.

Maryland

• Montgomery County: MoCo collects trees year-round as part of its yard trim collection service, so place your tree on the curb by 7 a.m. with your normal recycling.
• Prince George’s County: Drop it on the curb by 6 a.m. on your normal recycling pickup day anytime before Jan. 31. Or drop it off at a local recycling center.

Find information about other MD and VA counties here.