SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The City of South Bend is running a month-long free Christmas tree recycling program for anyone who lives within the city limits this holiday season.

Residents can go online (or call 311) to submit a pickup request and officials say from Monday, Dec. 30 to Thursday, Jan. 30, trees will be collected on the same day as trash pickup.

City officials say recycled trees will be made into mulch and compost, which means artificial trees, or trees containing metal, glass or wire will not be accepted.

Residents are asked to follow the guidelines below:

• Place your tree at the curb by 6 a.m. on the scheduled pickup day.
• Trees should not be placed in the street or alley.
• Vehicles should not be parked in front of or on top of the tree to allow crews clear access.
• Remove all ornaments, lights, plastic coverings, tree stands and any metal (including nails). These items can damage equipment or pose a safety risk to crews.

"Free pickup is available for one tree per household, but additional trees can be removed for a fee of $10 each," city officials said. "Tree pickups scheduled after Jan. 30 will count as the resident’s free monthly yard waste extra pickup."