Decorations, trimmings, and treatments are not compostable

If you’re bought a cut tree, know that we only compost the tree itself. Avoid trees that have been “flocked”—covered with chemicals mimicking snow—as they cannot be composted.

When it’s time to dispose of a compostable tree, you’ll have to remove all lights, decorations, tinsel, plastic bags, and plastic tree stands. You’ll have to cut the tree to fit inside your green compost cart with the lid closed.

If you don’t have the tools to cut your tree, free tool rental is available through the Berkeley Tool Lending Library, located at 1901 Russell Street.

Trees left on the curb won’t get picked up as they can damage City side-loader collection trucks.

Tree drop-off schedule

You may prefer dropping off discarded trees at the Transfer Station:

City of Berkeley Transfer Station
1201 2nd Street (off Gilman Avenue)
Monday – Saturday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm
Closed Christmas and New Year’s days.

FEES:

• Compostable trees:
In January, the drop-off for compostable trees is free.
Starting February 1, the drop-off fee is $30.75.
•  Flocked or plastic trees: The drop-off fee is $42.

As you celebrate the holidays, the City’s Zero Waste Division hopes you take some steps to reduce holiday waste.

Links

Berkeley Tool Lending Library
City of Berkeley Transfer Station