Recycle Your Holiday Tree

December 26, 2019 9:00 AM
by Yvonne Yeung

Updated as of 12/26/23

It is the day after Christmas, and Santa Monica's Resource Recovery and Recycling team is ramping up to begin collecting your holiday trees. 

Between December 26, 2023, and January 31, 2024, trees will be picked from the curbside or alley to receive a second life as mulch, keeping Santa Monica clean and sustainable. There is no need to contact 311 to request the pickup, this service will be provided automatically.

To take advantage of this free service, please follow these simple steps:

  1. Remove the tree’s stand.
  2. Remove any decorations, ornaments, and lights.
  3. Place your tree at your normal collection spot (either curbside or alley). 

Please allow up to ten business days for our crews to pick up trees. Please do not place trees in parks or lots. Thank you for your patience and happy holidays. 

For questions, email zerowaste@santamonica.gov.

Authored By

Yvonne Yeung
Resource Recovery and Recycling Administrator