Christmas Tree Disposal Options for New Yorkers

Disposing of a Christmas tree is often one of the most daunting aspects of the post-holiday season. Fortunately, most municipalities try to make this chore as easy for residents as possible, and New York is no exception. If you live in the five boroughs, here are your options for disposing of a Christmas tree—including the artificial variety.

New York City Christmas Tree Collection

The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) will pick up CLEAN (free from decorations!) trees and wreaths with other composting on regularly scheduled Curbside Composting collection days.

To prepare a tree or wreath for collection:

• Remove all lights, ornaments and tinsel.
• Remove stands from trees and metal frames and wires from wreaths.
• Do NOT wrap the greenery in plastic or place it in a plastic bag.
• Leave trees and wreaths at the curb.

Recycling Greenery for a Greener City

DSNY processes holiday greenery into compost for the city’s parks, institutions and community gardens. New Yorkers can drop off their Christmas trees at select city parks for chipping and recycling during Mulchfest. From December 26 through January 11, tree donations will be accepted during park hours. (Note: Some locations only accept trees; others chip the trees on-site.)

Chipping weekend will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, and Sunday, January 11, 2026. Participants will receive a bag of mulch to use in their backyards or to create a cozy winter blanket for a street tree.

Before taking a tree to Mulchfest, prepare it for mulching by removing the following:

• Lights
• Ornaments
• Tinsel
• Tree stands
• Netting
• Any tree-related accessories
• Plastic bags

Artificial Tree Disposal

For artificial trees that have reached the end of their usefulness, New Yorkers can recycle the base and trunk by placing them with metal, glass, plastic and cartons on recycling day. Again, all lights, ornaments and tinsel should be removed first.

DSNY will also collect artificial trees as garbage on regular collection days.

We hope you’re enjoying this celebratory time of year.

If we can help you prepare for the year ahead with a free, no-obligation insurance review, please call our office at 877.576.5200 or request a quote.