Drop-Off Locations: Fairfax County residents can recycle holiday trees at the I-66 Transfer Station (I-66) or the I-95 Landfill Complex (I-95) with a recycling fee. Remove all ornaments, decorations, tinsel, and stands before you drop it off.
Recycling Real Trees: Licensed collectors must collect and recycle real Christmas trees under 8 feet in single-family and townhouse communities during the first two weeks of January. Contact your collection service for details.
Pick up Free Mulch: The trees are placed in a wood-chipper with other brush and recycled. Residents can pick up this mulch for free at I-66 and I-95.
Donating Artificial Trees: Donate artificial trees in good condition to charitable organizations. For options, visit the Human Services Resources Guide.
Tree Lights Recycling: Tree lights can be recycled year-round for free at electronic waste locations at I-66 and I-95.
Environmental Reminder: Do not dispose of live Christmas trees, trash, or yard waste in Fairfax County parks. It is illegal and harms the environment.
In most cases, a private collection company picks up your trash. Residents are billed by the collection company or pay via their Home Owner Association fees. Find a list of Permitted Solid Waste Collection Companies. Some residents have trash collected by Fairfax County Government.
Aligning with the national “America Recycles Day,” Fairfax Recycles Day has been recognized by the Board of Supervisors on November 15 for several years. The County’s Solid Waste Management Program traditionally celebrates with various events, contests and giveaways.
