Is It Illegal To Throw Away Your Christmas Tree In North Carolina

When the New Year dawns, it will be time to say goodbye to your Christmas trees, but in the state of North Carolina, is it illegal to throw your tree in the garbage?

Here’s how to dispose of your Christmas tree in Charlotte.

City of Charlotte Solid Waste Services customers can follow specific protocols for the disposal of both real and artificial trees, with scheduled collections starting after the New Year.

In many urban and suburban areas, Christmas trees are collected from curbside during the first 2 weeks of January

How To Dispose Of A Real Tree

For those with real trees, you can simply place it at the curb for pickup. However, before disposal, remember to remove all decorations and the stand. Ensure that the tree is placed at least six feet away from the curb, three feet away from other collection items or objects, and not obstructing the sidewalk. Place the tree by the curb by 6 a.m. on your scheduled collection day.

What Happens To The Real Trees?

In most cases, the trees are chipped and made into mulch which is usually made available, free to city or county residents.

Never burn your Christmas tree in a fireplace or wood stove. Burning the tree may contribute to creosote buildup and could cause a chimney fire.

How To Dispose Of An Artificial Tree

Artificial Christmas trees fall under the category of 'bulky waste.' For the disposal of such items, customers need to schedule a pick-up appointment with the City. You can arrange this either online or by calling 311.

Just as with real trees, the artificial trees need to be on the curb by 6 a.m., free of decorations. Customers are cautioned that any bulky waste placed on the curb without prior scheduling will not be picked up.

What To Know About Christmas Decorations

Any items placed on curbs more than 24 hours in advance may attract a fine of $50, warns Solid Waste Services. For residents looking to dispose of their Christmas decorations, these should be bagged and placed in a garbage can for removal.

Although throwing away your Christmas tree isn't technically illegal, you could be fined for not disposing of your tree properly.

It is hoped that these guidelines will assist Charlotte's residents in disposing of their festive waste responsibly while minimizing any inconvenience to city services.

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