Artificial Christmas tree

Also called: artificial tree, artificial xmas tree, fake christmas tree, fake xmas tree, fake tree, plastic christmas tree

Depends where you live

National rules. Choose your council to see its answer.

Your council's answer

The answer can differ by council. Choose your council to see its rules for this item.

How to prepare it

  1. Reuse first: a good artificial tree lasts for years, so keep it, or donate it to a charity shop or community group
  2. Take off all decorations and tinsel
  3. Pre-lit trees: take off any detachable lights and plug-in controllers, which are electricals
  4. Most recycling centres take them in the general or bulky waste skip: check yours first

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National rules

The answer isn't the same in every UK nation. Choose your council to see the one that applies to you.

England and Wales

Paid home collection

Book a bulky waste collection, or take it to a recycling centre.

Book a council bulky waste collection (usually paid), take it to the tip, or donate usable furniture.

Also: Recycling centre, Drop-off point

Scotland

Home collection

Book a bulky waste collection, or take it to a recycling centre.

Book a council bulky uplift, take it to a recycling centre, or donate usable furniture to a reuse charity.

Also: Recycling centre, Drop-off point

Scotland-wide guidance, checked 27 Sep 2026. View the source

Northern Ireland

Paid home collection

Book a bulky waste collection, or take it to a recycling centre.

Book a council bulky collection (usually a small charge per item), take it to a recycling centre, or donate usable furniture.

Also: Recycling centre, Drop-off point

Northern Ireland-wide guidance, checked 27 Sep 2026. View the source

In our guides

Recycle This isn't run by or endorsed by any council or the government. Councils change their services, so check anything important with your council.