Christmas trees are magical, but once the holidays are over, you’re probably thinking, “Okay, now what?” Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Check out these quick tips on when, where, and how to recycle your Christmas tree this year. Let’s keep the holiday spirit alive and do something good for the planet.
Don’t forget to remove all lights, wire, tinsel, ornaments, nails, stands and other materials that are not organic. The only thing that can be recycled is the tree itself. Some groups or businesses do not accept flocked trees. Christmas wreaths and swags can usually be recycled with trees, but don’t forget to remove the frames and wire. Click here for more information.
Recycle Curbside
Recycle your tree with your curbside compost or garbage collections. The rules can very depending on your location. Larger trees may need to be cut in half, or you may need to place your tree in the compost pin in a way that it slides out easily. If you aren’t sure what’s best, ask Metro. This is by far the easiest option, but fees may apply. In Portland, for example, the fee is an extra $5.25 per tree.
Topaz Farm
Drop off your tree at Topaz Farm where it will be converted into biochar, a proven method to sequester carbon while creating healthier soil and tastier food, all without chemicals. A few of the trees will be given to the goats as treats, too. Plus you’ll get to visit the animals for free while you’re there! There’s often free cocoa and a chance to shop the market, too.
Where: Topaz Farm, 17100 NW Sauvie Island Road, Portland
When: January 3-4, 2026, 10 am-12 pm
Cost: No fees!
Scout Troops
BSA Troop 611
BSA Troop 611 will pick up your tree, or you can drop it off.
Where: CVS Pharmacy, 12002 SE Sunnyside Rd., or request a pick-up
When: January 3-4, and 10, 2026, 9 am-3 pm
Cost: $10 for trees under 8 ft
BSA Troup 150 and 5150
BSA Scout Troups 150 & 5150 have been recycling trees for 30 years!
Where: St. Andrews Drop Off location, or request a pick-up
When: Drop offs January 3-4, 10-11, and 17-18, 2026. Pick-ups are on January 10, 2026.
Cost: $15 for drop off, $20 for pick up
Zip Codes for pick-up: 97034, 97035, 97036, 97068, 97201, 97205, 97210, 97219, 97221, 97229, 97223, 97239, 97280
Portland Bentham Lions Club
Almost all proceeds from tree recycling fees are donated to charity.
Where: TBD 2026
When: TBD 2026
Cost: Typically $15 for drop off. Wreaths also accepted with a $15 suggested donation.
Create a salmon habitat!
North Clackamas Watershed Council collects donated Christmas trees to create salmon habitats.
Where: Typically North Clackamas Park Shelter A
When: TBD 2026
Cost: Typically $5
Do-It-Yourself
You can also recycle your Christmas tree at home—make mulch, firewood or even coasters.
Find even more local ways to recycle your tree through Oregon Metro.