How to Dispose of a Christmas Tree in Seattle

Real Christmas Trees

While real trees can’t be reused, the good thing about them is that they’re easy to recycle. Not only is recycling good for the environment, but it’s cheaper for you too! When you recycle your tree, the bark is shredded into wood chips, which can be used in compost or for mulching, and the leaves can be composted directly. So by recycling Christmas trees, you’re probably helping someone somewhere fertilize their garden.

Where to recycle a Christmas tree in Seattle? Here are the details:

• If you have curbside collection, you can just put the tree outside with other yard waste. Trim the tree down to 6 feet or less, and branches to 4 feet or less. Bundle each section up with decomposable material such as jute twine. Make sure you remove the ornaments and decorations. They aren’t recyclable, and you can use most of them next year!
• You can take the tree to the South Transfer Station in Seattle for recycling. It’s free from Dec 26-Jan 31, after which a minimum $20 fee is applicable. The dump is closed on Christmas and New Year, and you’ll have to wait less if you go in between Tuesday to Thursday. The size limit is 8 feet for trees, and 4 inches (diameter) for branches.
• Flocked trees are not accepted.

When taking the tree to the transfer station, remember to follow normal disposal directions, like removing decorations, and anything that isn’t recyclable. Christmas lights can be recycled at certain places.

Artificial Christmas Trees

Artificial Christmas trees are very convenient, and if the tree’s in good shape with its lights still working, the best thing would be to stash it away and reuse it next year. A household that uses less and generates less waste is a lot more eco-friendly than a household that has a higher consumption, and recycles meticulously.

If you have an artificial tree and were looking for directions on how to recycle a Christmas tree in Seattle, unfortunately you’re out of luck. Artificial Xmas trees are treated as garbage by the city services, and need to be dropped off at the transfer station for the usual rate, which is $30 for a single trip. Make sure you secure your load!

You can donate the tree or look for a local recycling campaign, some of which offer Christmas tree pickup in Seattle. These aren’t 100% certain to work out, however, and if you need an easier solution you can ask Action Junk Hauling for help. We’ll take your Christmas tree and dispose of it in an environmentally responsible manner.