AUSTIN, Texas — Depending on when you decide the season is over, many Christmas decorations are starting to come down in anticipation of the new year. But what’s the correct way to dispose of an old tree in Austin?
Curbside
In the capital city and surrounding areas, City of Austin curbside customers can set live Christmas trees outside their residence for curbside collection. According to the City of Austin, this process begins Dec. 26, and trees can be set out by 5:30 a.m. on composting collection day. If you’re unsure when this is, click here.
There are some exceptions. Real trees sprayed with artificial snow, trees with ornaments, lights or tree stands still attached and bagged trees will not be accepted. If your tree is six feet or taller, be sure to cut it in half before setting it out for collection.
Zilker Park drop off
If you don’t have a curbside collection service, don’t fret. All Austinites can drop off their natural trees, wreaths and garlands for recycling at Zilker Park on Saturday, Jan. 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
If you want to repurpose your tree for yard work or other uses, you’re in luck. Trees taken to Zilker Park for recycling will be turned into mulch, and residents can bring their own tools and containers to collect and take some home for free. Mulch collection will take place on a first come-first served basis starting Jan. 8 at 9 a.m.
Other free tree drop off locations
NOTE: A contamination fee will be added to any trees with tags, decorations and/or plastic. Contact the location for fees and information about dropping off multiple trees at once.
Hornsby Bend Biosolids Management Plant
2210 FM 973, Austin, Texas
A government-issued photo ID is required for entry
Drop off is free for Austin and Travis County residents
Individuals residing outside of Austin and Travis County should check with their municipality for options
For more information, call 512-974-4343
Texas Disposal Systems
TDS Landfill Creedmoor: 3016 FM 1327, Creedmoor, Texas, 78610
TDS and Garden-Ville Bee Cave: 4001 RR 620 South, Bee Cave, Texas, 78738
Whittlesey Landscape Supplies
3219 S IH 35, Round Rock, Texas 78664
629 Dalton Lane, Austin, Texas 78742
Kinser Ranch LLC.
Travis County West Service Center
Travis County East Service Center
Travis County Collection Center
Del Valle Softball Complex
Bulk drop-off (10 trees or more) for retailers is available at the following locations.
Travis County West Service Center
4501 FM 620 Austin, TX 78732
Please call 512-854-8140 to schedule a bulk drop-off appointment and follow the disposal requirements
Travis County East Service Center
6011 Blue Bluff Rd, Austin, Texas 78724
Please call 512-854-9114 to schedule a bulk drop-off appointment and follow the disposal requirements