Christmas Tree Recycling in Portland

Now that the big day is past, you’re probably wondering what to do with the tree. We’ve pulled together some resources for when, where and how to recycle your Christmas tree this year.

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.

Choose Your Recycler

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.

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. And you’ll get to visit the animals for free while you’re there!
Where: Topaz Farm, 17100 NW Sauvie Island Road, Portland
When: December 30-31, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. If you want to watch them make biochar, visit on December 24 between 10 am and 1 pm, during their holiday pop-up market. Cuauhtemoc Villa will be answering questions while burning.
Cost: No fees!

Portland Legacy Lions
Proceeds from tree recycling fees support hearing aids, eyeglasses, food assistance and more for individuals in need in the NW Portland. Portland Legacy Lions may also pick up in your area. Arrangement for pickup can be made by email or telephone: pllc.recycling@gmail.com or (971) 350-9121.
Where: Good Samaritan Parking Lot, Corner of NW 23rd and Northrup St.
When: January 7, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Cost: $7 drop off donation; $22 pick up donation

Ecocycle Your Christmas Tree into Coho Salmon Habitat with Trout Unlimited
Where: Two locations. Eastside: Northwest Fly Fishing Outfitters (10910 NE Halsey Street, Portland). Westside: the old West Linn Fire Station at 6000 Failing Street, West Linn, next to the Royal Treatment Fly Fishing shop. To protect water quality, no flocking or tinsel allowed.
When: January 7 and 14, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Cost: $10

Boy Scout and Girl Scout Troops
You can easily find the closest drop off location to benefit a local chapter of the Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts by entering your address here. Some also pick up!
Where and When: Multiple locations and times. For example, Scouts BSA Troops 423 and 218 are servicing zip codes 97007, 97008, 97223 and 97224, on January 1, 7, 8 and 15.
Cost: Around $10-15

St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church
Where: 3228 SW Sunset Boulevard, Portland
When: December 31, and January 1, 7-8, 14-15, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Cost: $10 donation requested

Join the Holiday Tree Toss Cancelled due to permitting issues
Help create essential salmon habitats out of your old holiday trees for juvenile salmon in the Columbia basin with the Columbia Slough Watershed Council. There will be hot cocoa, donuts, and stewardship activities.
Where: Kelley Point Park
When: January 7, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

You can also recycle your Christmas tree at home—make mulch, firewood or coasters.

Find even more local ways to recycle your tree through Oregon Metro.