Recycling Christmas Trees: What You Need to Know

Christmas may be over, but Anne Arundel or Prince George's County can still put your natural trees, wreaths and garlands to good use as part of its yard waste recycling program.

Anne Arundel County collects yard waste all year round, and will take your trees and other natural holiday decor as well to save space in the county landfill. Natural trees are chipped into mulch, which is used as ground cover in gardens and parks. 

To recycle your Christmas tree, wreath or garland, leave them out on the curb on your regular yard waste collection day prior to 6 a.m.  Tree stands, bags, metal ornament hangers and decorations should be removed from trees and wreaths prior to curb placement. Very tall trees should be cut in half so they can fit into the truck.

For more information on the county's tree recycling or yard waste collection programs, visit the department of public works website. 

Residents who live in Prince George's County should leave undecorated trees on their curbs prior to 6:30 a.m. on the regular yard waste collection day. Trees must be free of all lights, decorations and tinsel prior to curb placement. 

Trees can also be dropped off free of charge at the Prince George’s County Yard Waste Composting Facility at 6601 Southeast Crain Highway in Upper Marlboro, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Trees can also be dropped off for free at the Brown Station Road Public Convenience Center located at 3501 Brown Station Road in Upper Marlboro, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday.