San Francisco Christmas tree recycling pickup starts early next year

San Francisco officials are reminding residents not to dump Christmas trees just anywhere on the street. Recology will come by to pick up trees starting next year during regular garbage pick up days.

Beginning Jan. 4 and through Jan. 15, residents can put trees out next to blue recycling bins the night before their regularly scheduled pickup day. Officials say discarded trees should be completely bare — all decorations, tinsel, lights, plastic bags and nails should be removed. Trees measuring 6 feet or taller need to be cut in half.

Acting Public Works Director Alaric Degrafinried said in a statement: 

“Not only does this ensure that discarded holiday trees will be put to good use as earth-friendly mulch, but disposing of them properly also helps keep our neighborhoods clean and safe and reduces fire hazards.”

In normal years, city officials hold an annual event in front of City Hall to demonstrate the chipping process.

Once the trees are chipped, they will be sent to Recology’s Blossom Valley Organics North to be converted into mulch that can be used for landscaping and weed prevention. 

Last year, the Department of Environment said The City collected 500 tons of trees. The department’s Director Debbie Rapahel said in statement:

“This holiday season, whether you’re celebrating with your household or sharing a meal with family over Zoom, don’t forget that you can keep the City clean and green by setting your tree out for recycling.”

City residents can find Recology’s holiday schedule on its website.

Jerold Chinn

Jerold serves as a reporter and San Francisco Bureau Chief for SFBay covering transportation and occasionally City Hall and the Mayor's Office in San Francisco. His work on transportation has been recognized by the San Francisco Press Club. Born and raised in San Francisco, he graduated from San Francisco State University with a degree in journalism. Jerold previously wrote for the San Francisco Public Press, a nonprofit, noncommercial news organization. When not reporting, you can find Jerold taking Muni to check out new places to eat in the city.