St. Paul residents can recycle natural holiday trees and dispose of seasonal waste through city and county programs designed to reduce landfill use and prevent environmental harm.

The city will collect natural holiday trees from Jan. 2 through Jan. 15. Residents may place one tree per household next to their garbage cart on their regular collection day. Trees must be free of decorations and stands and should not block carts or be placed upright in snow.

Artificial trees and live trees larger than six feet or heavier than 20 pounds are not accepted through curbside collection and require scheduling a bulky item pickup. Residents may also drop off trees for free at Ramsey County yard waste sites.

City officials caution that wreaths and garlands are not accepted as yard waste due to metal wires and decorations. These items should be bagged and placed in garbage carts. Burning holiday greenery or leaving it outdoors is discouraged due to invasive species risks.

Most wrapping paper and gift bags are recyclable, though glittered, foil and tissue paper should go in the trash. Extra cardboard can be taken to the Ramsey County Environmental Center in Roseville for free drop-off.

The city is also offering seasonal recycling for holiday lights and electrical cords at libraries and select facilities, noting these items should not go in home recycling carts.

Find more information, including recycling locations, at stpaul.gov/departments/public-works/garbage-and-recycling/holiday-disposa.