Starting Dec. 26, Williamson County residents can dispose of their Christmas trees for free by dropping them off at the Williamson County Landfill, located at 600 Landfill Road in Hutto.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, at least one-third of house fires that begin with a Christmas tree going up in flames occur in January, a news release said, adding that prompt removal and disposal of a Christmas tree after the holiday season is highly encouraged to avoid any potential hazard.

Residents have until Jan. 19 to get rid of their trees at the landfill. Before taking a tree to the landfill, residents are asked to remove all lights and ornaments. Flocked trees are not accepted for recycling.

The landfill is open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon. The landfill is closed on Sundays and will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.