Lambeth Council has confirmed that real Christmas trees will be collected for free across the borough from 5 January 2026. Residents can place their real trees next to their bins on their usual collection day, provided all decorations and pots have been removed.

Because Christmas trees take up considerable space in collection vehicles, the council can only collect a limited number each day. If a tree is not collected, residents are asked to bring it back in and place it out again on their next scheduled collection day.

Residents living on estates should leave their real Christmas trees beside the communal bin areas or in designated bulky waste collection points.

For those who prefer to dispose of their trees directly, Lambeth Council is also offering recycling drop-off options. Residents can book a slot to take their tree to either Smugglers Way Recycling Centre or Vale Street Reuse and Recycling Centre.

The council encourages all residents to recycle their real trees responsibly to help reduce waste and support sustainable disposal this winter.