How To Recycle Christmas Trees In Alexandria After 2025 Holidays

ALEXANDRIA, VA — As much as families may want to extend the holiday season, live Christmas trees may have a time limit. There are several ways to get rid of your live Christmas tree once the holidays are over.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends taking out Christmas trees when they are dry due to the fire hazard. The organization said trees will dry out over time and be more likely to catch fire quickly than a well-watered tree. Annual home fires caused by Christmas trees averaged 155 between 2018 and 2022, causing an average four resident deaths, seven residents injuries and $15 million in direct property damage.

In the City of Alexandria, residents can put out their live Christmas tree curbside by 6 a.m. on their collection day from Jan. 2 to 16. All decorations, lights, plastic bags and stands must be removed. Natural wreaths and garlands may be placed out for recycling if the wires are removed; otherwise, they must go in the trash.

Residents with private curbside recycling services should seek more information about Christmas tree pickup from their homeowner's association or private waste collector.