Bring out your Christmas trees as Edmonton begins collection Monday

A Christmas tree in this undated file image.

The City of Edmonton began its curbside collection of natural Christmas trees Monday.

Collectors will only go to each neighbourhood once, and not necessarily on the regular collection date, according to the city.

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Residents were asked to put their trees out by 7 a.m. Monday and leave them on the curb to ensure they are picked up.

Before putting trees out for collection, residents are asked to:

• remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel, garlands, nails, screws and tree stands;
• cut trees larger than two metres (6.5 feet) into smaller pieces;
• place the unbagged tree on its side next to the garbage or food scraps cart;
• ensure Christmas trees are clear of snow and ice so they can be easily spotted and lifted.

The last day for collection is Feb. 3.

People who miss the collection window in their neighbourhood or who live in apartments and condos can bring natural trees to a community recycling depot until Feb. 9, leaving the tree next to the entrance or exit without blocking access.

Eco stations will also accept trees and staff can provide instructions for where to place them.

Both options are free.

The city asks residents to not put trees next to apartment or condominium garbage, recycling or food waste bins as they will not be picked up.

For people who still have artificial trees hanging around but don’t want to keep them, those in good condition can be donated to a local charity, second-hand store or the Reuse centre.

Artificial trees in poor condition can be brought to an eco station for a fee or disposed of with regular garbage, the city adds.