Seminole County Extends Free Live Christmas Tree Collection Through January

Seminole County announced that residents of unincorporated areas may place live Christmas trees at the curb for yard-waste collection on Wednesdays through the end of January 2026. The county also offered free drop-off at the Central Transfer Station in Longwood and the Seminole County Landfill in Geneva for anyone who prefers to deliver trees themselves.

To ensure safe, efficient handling, the county instructed residents to remove lights, ornaments and tinsel before placing trees out for collection. Trees longer than eight feet should be cut into sections no longer than four feet. These steps are intended to speed pickup and to protect collection equipment and staff.

The Wednesday schedule means residents should set trees out the night before or early on collection day for pickup with routine yard-waste service. The free drop-off options give residents an alternative if timing or space makes curbside placement impractical. Both curbside collection and the two drop-off locations are offered at no charge through the January window.

For homeowners in unincorporated Seminole County, the announcement simplifies disposal after the holidays and reduces the need to transport bulky items to a landfill at personal expense. Proper preparation of trees - removing decorations and cutting to size - also helps crews process yard waste more quickly and reduces the risk of jams or damage to machinery.

Beyond convenience, the program reflects how local public works departments manage seasonal debris while balancing labor and equipment safety. Residents who live inside city limits may have different collection rules through their municipalities; those unsure of their status should confirm whether they fall under Seminole County curbside service.

This announcement runs through the end of January 2026, giving residents several weeks to dispose of trees responsibly. More details and reminders about accepted preparations are available on the county website at seminolecountyfl.gov/news-items/2026/01/12/recycle-your-live-christmas-tree-through-january

For Seminole County residents, the message is simple: trim the tree, strip the lights, and use the free curb or drop-off options while they last. Properly prepared trees mean faster pickups, safer crews, and fewer leftover trunks on lawns as winter turns to spring.