Christmas trees will be picked up in January

If your live Christmas tree has dried out, it’s time to dispose of it to avoid a fire hazard, the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department warns. 

Christmas tree fires aren’t that common, but when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Dried out trees should not be left in the home or garage, where they could catch fire from a nearby electrical or heat source. Trees should instead be left outside away from any buildings.

Fairfax County will collect Christmas trees less than eight feet during the first two weeks in January if set out in the curb at single-family homes and townhouses. Ornaments and tinsel must be removed.

Live trees can also be dropped off for recycling at the I-66 Transfer Station or the I-95 Landfill Complex. There is a $7 recycling fee. Artificial trees in good condition can be dropped off at the donation stations at those locations.