How to throw out your Christmas tree in Tampa Bay

We hate to break it to you, but the holidays are over.

Why it matters: It's time to start thinking about what to do with that crunchy Christmas tree.

The big picture: Local governments have different procedures for disposing of your tree. When in doubt, check with your city or county.

When disposing of a live tree, be sure to remove all lights and decorations.

Tampa: Curbside collection began Friday at no additional cost to residents.

Put your stripped tree by the curb on your scheduled yard waste collection day.

St. Petersburg: Instead of the usual citywide sweep, residents must submit a request for pickup through the city's SeeClickFix app or by calling 727-893-7398.

Residents can also drop off their trees at five brush sites. Bring a photo ID and a water bill for proof of residency.

Hillsborough County: Place your stripped tree by the curb on your scheduled yard waste collection day.

You can also drop off your tree at the Northwest County or South County yard waste facility.

Pinellas County: Drop off your live tree at the county's Solid Waste Disposal Complex to be recycled into mulch.

The facility accepts trees at $3 per load for up to five trees.

Check with your city about any additional options.