St. Pete Standard

The City of St. Petersburg has announced that it will be offering free collection of live Christmas trees as part of a one-time, city-wide event. Starting on Saturday, January 6, residents can have their trees collected for free until Friday, February 2.

To ensure that the collection process goes smoothly, the city has provided some guidelines. First and foremost, it is important to remove all lights, ornaments, garland, tree stands, plastic tree disposal bags, and any other decorations from the tree. The city also recommends reusing lights and ornaments or donating them to reduce waste. It is important to note that strands of Christmas lights can cause significant equipment damage if they get tangled in recycling machines.

Residents are advised to place their trees out for collection before 7 a.m. on Saturday, January 6. The trees should be placed in the same location where trash is usually collected. If trash is picked up at the curb, trees should be placed at the curb. If trash is picked up in the alley, trees should be placed in the alley. It is important not to place the tree inside trash or recycling containers or lean it against electrical poles, trash containers, water meters, or any other objects.

Due to the city-wide nature of the collection, it may take up to four weeks for all trees to be collected. The city asks residents to be patient during this time.

For those who miss the collection event, there is an option to request a Special Pickup of their Christmas tree. This can be done by submitting a request at stpete.org/service or by calling the Sanitation Department at 727-893-7398 during normal business hours.

Residents also have the option to drop off their trees at one of the City's brush sites. The brush sites are open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., seven days a week. It is important to note that the brush sites are closed on New Year's Day. Residents should bring a photo ID and a water bill as proof of residency.

The collected trees will be turned into mulch, which will be available for free to residents at the City's brush sites. However, residents of apartments and condos are advised to check with their property managers for proper disposal options.

This free Christmas tree collection event is a great opportunity for St. Petersburg residents to dispose of their live trees in an environmentally friendly manner. By following the guidelines set by the city, residents can ensure a smooth and efficient collection process.

In conclusion, the City of St. Petersburg is offering free collection of live Christmas trees as part of a city-wide event. The collection will take place from January 6 to February 2, and residents are advised to remove all decorations from their trees and place them in the designated collection area. For those who miss the collection event, a Special Pickup can be requested, and there are also drop-off locations available. The collected trees will be turned into mulch, which will be free to residents at the City's brush sites.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.stpete.org/news_detail_T30_R861.php