Christmas trees at Andy's Creekside Nursery — Andy’s Creekside Nursery in Vestavia Hills (Callie Morrison / Bham Now)

It’s that time of year again–you got a live Christmas tree and now you have to figure out what to do with it before the needles start to fall. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered.

Keep reading to learn more about tree repurposing and where to drop off your tree in Birmingham.

Don’t waste your tree–reuse it

Before you drop off your tree, consider reusing your tree. Here are some sustainable ways you can repurpose your tree before disposal:

Create your own mulch
Create fresheners from pine needles
Make firewood
Make compost
Insulate your garden

If you plan to drop off your tree, make sure to do it sooner rather than later. The more dry a tree gets, it can become a fire hazard.

Birmingham Zoo drop-off

zoo — The Birmingham Zoo has been Birmingham’s premier tree drop-off location for decades. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

Every year, the City of Mountain Brook and the Birmingham Zoo host a Christmas tree recycling event. From December 26 to January 9, take your tree and follow the signs to the designated tree drop zone.

Hours: 9AM-4PM
Location: 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223, through the main entrance, turn right + head to Lot 3 overflow parking

City of Homewood

If you are a Homewood resident, a claw truck will be picking up and recycling Christmas trees. Make sure trees are free of all decorations before putting them out on the curb (not the street!) for pick-up.

Monday/Thursday pick-up days: Place your tree at the curb Thursday for disposal.
Tuesday/Friday pick-up days: Place your tree at the curb Friday for disposal.

Shelby County drop-off locations

If you’re in the Shelby County area, here are a few spots where you can take your Christmas tree:

Pelham City Park (U.S. 31)
Chelsea City Hall
Heardmont Park
Ray Building (504 Hwy 70)
Propst Promenade Alabaster

Drop-off areas will be located in parking lots and marked with orange traffic cones and signs.

Plus, Oak Mountain High School’s Christopher Agee has been picking up Christmas trees across the Birmingham area since he was 13 years old. His business is in full swing now that Christmas is over. Learn more and book a Christmas tree removal at 205.306.5407.

Stay updated here for more Christmas tree drop-offs throughout the next few weeks.

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