DC Winter Deadlines + Tips You Should Know
Nest DC
For many of us, the time has come to pack up from the holidays. Whether that’s disposing of trees, packing up donations, or simply cleaning up around the house in the new year, you probably have a few boxes to check off your to-do list. Maybe you've tried a new tradition of purchasing a live tree, or you're new to living in Washington, DC, and now you're wondering how and where to dispose of unwanted items. This is our list of what you need to know living in DC post-holiday season.
Donation Services
If you’re decluttering and getting organized to start the new year off strong, here are some DMV donation locations that may come in handy. You can also consider donating items to local nonprofits doing donation drives or mutual aid organizations that collect supplies directly for our neighbors in DC.
Tree Disposal
Holiday trees and greenery recycling occurs between January 3, 2024, and March 2, 2024.
For all DPW-service residents, crews will collect your tree and any other live greenery from the curbside, where recycling takes place. Please remember to remove lights, wires, and fixtures, such as cords and zip ties, before putting them out for collection.
Residents of DC can also drop off their live greenery at 201 Bryant St. NW (Roll off box) or Guy Mason Recreation Center (3600 Calvert Street NW) before March 2, 2024.
Head to DPW's website for additional information on composing your live greenery.
Do You Know Where to Dump?
If you have items that truly cannot be donated or given away (are you a member of your local ‘Buy Nothing’ group yet?), you may be due a visit to the dump. This is a great place to take damaged goods that can’t easily be picked up by your weekly trash service. In DC, we have a location primarily for electronics on Benning Road and a general dump at the Fort Totten Transfer Station.
Pro Tip: Don’t dump outside residential units. If you live in a single-family home, you can be fined by 311 for illegal dumping (neighbors can easily report this via the app). If you live in a multifamily (apartment or condo building), the manager or association can fine you for improper waste disposal. Most trash services have options for scheduling a bulk pick-up, so either call them to coordinate or make arrangements to visit the dump!
Snow Removal
DPW is your resource for the do’s and don'ts of snow removal in DC. Be prepared with proper snow equipment ahead of time and have a plan. You may need to offer help to your neighbors or ask for help for yourself! Removing snow promptly is not only important for avoiding fines from the District but also for avoiding any accidents that could occur on your property due to icy conditions.
Keeping Each Other Safe
When temperatures plummet, we have to take care of ourselves and others. DC's unhoused population is especially susceptible to hypothermia-related deaths, and we can all help. DHS has a helpful fact sheet about hypothermia that includes the shelter hotline phone number and FAQs about assisting someone at risk during the winter season.
You can utilize these tips and make a plan post-holiday winter season so that your to-do list isn’t a burden! DC offers some great resources to support us in our neighborly responsibilities. Happy homes house happy residents that build supportive and robust communities. We’re for that!
For more happy home content, we suggest checking out our winter maintenance checklist for DC residents.
