Christmas trees, including flocked trees, may be recycled in Coronado by using either the green waste curbside program or the drop-off program between Dec. 26 and Jan. 19.
For the green waste curbside program, 4-foot sections of Christmas trees can be placed in yard waste recycling containers that are then placed on the curb. Sections of trees can also be bundled with twine — at a maximum size of 4 feet in length and 18 inches in diameter — and set on the curb.
Two drop-off locations will be taking trees (no size restrictions) from Dec. 26 to Jan. 19: The Glorietta Bay boat launch parking lot and the Cays Park parking lot.
Trees of any size can be placed in the large roll-off dumpsters at those locations.
Here are a few Christmas tree recycling tips from the city:
- Strung lights cannot be recycled. They tangle the machines and cause the system to shut down for de-tangling.
- Flocked or fake snow (flock) contains chemicals. Therefore, these trees cannot be composted.
- Tinsel must be completely removed and placed in the trash before a tree can be recycled.
- Make sure to remove all ornaments, garlands, lights, nails, tree bags and tree stands (metal or plastic) before recycling.
- Reuse or donate artificial trees that are in good condition. Purchasing new plastic trees create more waste and greenhouse gasses. To show any environmental benefit, they need to be used for at least 20 years.
- Real trees should not sit around too long after the holidays. They can dry out and become fire hazards. Organic wreaths and similar organic decorations can be recycled with trees.
Information provided by the City of Coronado.
