With the holidays over, it’s just about time to get rid of your Christmas tree. Last year several commenters insisted that this must not be done until after the Epiphany, but growing up in my heathen household, we always started taking holiday decorations down on Jan. 2, and at least according to the Department of Public Works’ published schedule, the District government apparently agrees with me.

Residents who receive DC trash collection service are encouraged to place holiday trees and other greenery in curbside tree boxes—without ornaments or tinsel—by January 2, 2009. Trees will be picked up during a special two-week collection from January 2-11. Trees not collected by January 17 should be placed with your regular trash. DPW will collect the trees, along with the regular trash, as truck space permits over the following weeks. Residents also can bring trees to the Ft. Totten Transfer Station weekdays, 1 pm-5 pm, and Saturdays, 8 am-3 pm, for free tree chipping.

The dates are obviously a little vague there (Jan. 2-11 hardly constitutes a “two-week” period), but Jan. 17 is the correct final date by which tree removal will occur — the city is just hoping you’ll put out your trees as early as possible. If you place your tree out by Jan. 11, and it is still not removed by Jan. 17, you should call 311 (202) 727-1000. Trees collected before Jan. 17 will be mulched by the city. Trees removed by regular garbage pickup after Jan. 17 will be mixed in with regular garbage at the city dump.

Photo by Darren and Brad