Christmas tree collection begins January 9
January 3, 2020

The City will start collecting natural Christmas trees on Thursday, January 9, 2020. Trees will be picked up before the end of January, but not necessarily on residents’ scheduled waste collection day. 

Natural Christmas Trees

Residents living in a single-unit home are asked to:
  • Set natural trees out for collection by 7 a.m. on Thursday, January 9, 2020
  • Place the unbagged tree on its side next to your usual waste set-out area
  • Cut extra-large trees into 2 metre (approximately 6 feet) lengths
  • Remove all ornaments, tinsel, garlands, nails, screws and tree stands, so that trees are acceptable for composting
  • Ensure Christmas trees are clear of snow and ice so they can be easily spotted and lifted during pickup
  • Do not place trees inside the green carts (for Edmonton Cart Rollout residents only)

Apartment or condo residents can take their natural Christmas trees, free of charge until January 31, to:
  • One of four Eco Stations (staff will provide guidance on where to place trees)
  • One of 20 community Recycling Depots (place the tree next to the entrance or exit of the depot and make sure it does not block access)

Christmas trees should not be placed in or near apartment recycling or garbage bins as they will not be picked up.

In 2019, the City collected more than 9,737 natural Christmas trees, weighing over 109 tonnes. The trees are chipped and composted at the Edmonton Waste Management Centre. Wood chips are used to make various types of compost for horticulture, agriculture and land reclamation.

Artificial Christmas Trees

The Reuse Centre accepts artificial trees, as long as the tree is in a box and includes all parts. The donated trees are available for purchase by organizations or individuals.

If an artificial tree is not in good condition, drop it off at an Eco Station or set it out with regular garbage collection. Package the tree for collection, not in a big box but in bags or bundles less than four feet in length. Keep each bag or bundle under 44 pounds.
For more information:

Media contact:
Communications Coordinator
Communications and Engagement
780-496-7918