The NYC Department of Sanitation will be conducting special collections for mulching and recycling of Christmas trees.

Trees can be put out starting on the evening of Sunday, January 4, 2009. Collections will take place beginning on Monday, January 5 through Saturday, January 17. Beginning on Saturday, January 17, Christmas trees will be collected with regular garbage.

Residents are encouraged to put out thier trees as early as possible during the collection period.

DSNY asks residents to remove all tree stands, tinsel, lights, and ornaments from trees before placing them out for collection. DO NOT place trees in plastic bags. Trees will be chipped into compost, which will be distributed to parks, playing fields, and community gardens throughout the city.

New Yorkers can also participate in NYC Parks & Recreation Mulchfest by bringing their holiday trees to designated sites across the five boroughs to be chipped into mulch by the Parks Department. The mulch is used to nourish plantings across the City. Before dropping off your tree, remove all lights and ornaments. Free mulch will be available at Mulchfest locations—bring a bag if you would like to leave with a bag of mulch.