Residents recycling their Christmas trees in Austin after the holiday season.
As the festive season concludes, Austin and Travis County residents are reminded to recycle their natural Christmas trees starting December 26, 2023. Options for tree recycling include curbside collection for curbside customers and drop-off at Zilker Park. Trees must be free of ornaments, and those over six feet should be cut in half. Additional drop-off locations are available for Travis County residents. Free mulch will be offered starting January 8, 2024. Don’t forget to recycle holiday lights and wrapping paper responsibly.
As the festive season winds down, residents in Austin and Travis County are reminded that it’s time to bid farewell to their beloved Christmas trees! Starting from December 26, 2023, local families can easily recycle their natural Christmas trees with several convenient options available.
For those who are curbside customers, just place your Christmas tree at the curb on your regular collection day, and your tree will be taken away. Just remember to have it out there by 5:30 a.m. to ensure it gets picked up. Only the trees that are natural and free from decorations can be recycled, so be sure to remove any ornaments, tinsel, lights, or tree stands before placing it at the curb.
If your Christmas tree is over six feet tall, you’ll need to cut it in half for collection. Additionally, trees that have been sprayed with artificial snow (also known as flocking) will not be accepted. Remember, putting your tree in a plastic bag is a no-go, too!
Not keen on curbside pickup? That’s okay! You can also drop off your all-natural Christmas tree at Zilker Park. The park will hold the 38th Annual Holiday Tree Recycling event on specified days between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.. All trees collected here will be transformed into mulch—a wonderful way to recycle!
Speaking of mulch, if you’ve ever wanted some for your garden, you’re in luck! Starting from January 8 at 9 a.m., free mulch will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Just drop by and grab what you need while supplies last.
Now, if you live in Travis County, you have additional drop-off locations available for recycling Christmas trees. From December 26 through January 12, residents can drop off their trees at five locations including:
The drop-off hours at these centers are from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
If you’re looking to recycle holiday lights that are no longer working, take them to the Recycle and Reuse Drop-off Center located at 2514 Business Center Drive in Travis County. They also accept packaging materials such as Styrofoam and cardboard, making it an excellent resource for all your recycling needs.
When it comes to wrapping paper and cardboard, just toss them in your blue single-stream recycling cart. However, make sure any glitter or foil-wrapped paper goes in the trash. And remember, if you have Styrofoam, either bring it to the Recycle & Reuse Drop-Off Center or make sure it’s sealed in a bag before disposal.
Planning to drop off items at the Recycle & Reuse Drop-Off Center? Don’t forget that appointments are required for this service. More information can be found on the city’s website, ensuring everything goes smoothly during your visit.
So, as you take down the twinkly lights and decorate your home for the New Year, don’t forget about recycling your Christmas tree! It’s an easy way to keep our beautiful city green and clean. Got your plans sorted? Happy recycling!
Austin’s New Year’s Eve Celebrations: A 2025 Guide
Holiday Festivities in Austin for December 20-22, 2024
Weekend Festivities Await in Austin
Celebrate the New Year with Green Choices in Austin
News Summary The U.S. Postal Service is exploring relocating its East Austin post office after…
News Summary Communities in Texas and Kentucky are reeling from a series of tragic vehicle…
News Summary The Austin Broadway scene is set to shine with the announcement of the…
News Summary Austin's food scene is bustling with changes as new restaurants open their doors…
News Summary Austin is experiencing a significant shift in community planning and affordable housing initiatives…
News Summary Austin's political landscape transforms as local representative Greg Casar becomes the youngest chair…