Christmas Trees Can, and Should, be Recycled
Once Christmas has passed, you may be wondering what to do with your tree. We like to enjoy our trees well into the new year, but all good things come to an end, and it is important to dispose of your tree in a responsible manner. Most communities offer Christmas tree recycling to residents.
It is extremely important to follow the rules. Due to high contamination, some municipalities have decreased Christmas Tree recycling services over the last few years.
Trees are not meant for the landfill. Many cities have special drop-off locations specifically for Christmas tree recycling. In many cases, the trees are chipped and the mulch is then offered for free to residents. Our tree removal bags can also be recycled where plastic bags are recycled (like at the entrance of most grocery stores), but must not be included in your tree drop-off.
Here is a list of tree drop-off options in Boulder County:
Keep in mind there is a timeframe for most Christmas tree disposal options.
- Longmont has satellite locations for Christmas tree recycling. Residents may also use the waste diversion center (free with a city utility bill). Longmont Holiday Recycling
- Frederick residents can drop-off for free near the entrance to Centennial Park. Frederick Drop-off
- Lafayette no longer offers a drop-off location due to contamination. Republic customers can put their tree out on compost day–special requirements, see the link. Lafayette Christmas Tree Disposal
- Louisville has a drop-off day in January, or a drop off can be scheduled. Louisville Christmas Tree Recycling
- In Boulder trees can be left curbside on your compost day or can be taken to Western Disposal. Special rules again apply.
- Erie residents may use the location at the Erie Recycling Center. Erie Christmas Tree Recycling
- Berthoud residents can drop-off at the Parks and Forestry building. Berthoud Drop-off
- Lyons usually offers a one day option. Lyons Drop-off
- Estes Park has a free drop-off for residents at the Fairgrounds. Estes Park Drop-off
- Please note that Blue Ribbon Farm is not a drop-off location.
“I cannot stay forever here. Another tree will come next year.”
– Julia Donaldson, The Christmas Pine