How to Recycle Your Christmas Tree in Grand Rapids

If you’re still enjoying the glow of your fresh-cut Christmas tree, don’t worry—there’s no rush just yet. But once the holidays wrap up, you’ll need a plan for getting rid of it. In Grand Rapids, residents have two easy options for Christmas tree disposal: free drop-off sites around the city or a fee-based curbside pickup.

Where Can You Drop Off Your Christmas Tree for Free in Grand Rapids?

The City offers free drop-off sites for Christmas trees through January 31 at these locations:

Riverside Park (north entrance), 2001 Monroe Ave. NE
MacKay-Jaycees Park, 2531 Kalamazoo Ave. SE
Huff Park, (Ball St. parking lot) 2286 Ball Ave. NE

You can also drop off trees at the Compost and Yard Waste Site at 2001 Butterworth Road SW. Winter hours are Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Will the City of Grand Rapids Pick Up Christmas Trees?

The City of Grand Rapids also offers a fee-based curbside pickup program, with the Department of Public Works collecting trees through January 31. After that, you can call to request a collection.

If you'd like your tree picked up, you'll need to attach a green $2.75 City bulk yard waste tag to the tree. Place the tree in your regular pickup area by 7a.m. on your trash collection day.

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You can buy bulk yard waste tags at City Hall, 300 Monroe Ave. NW, in the customer service lobby. It's open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Some local stores also carry yard waste tags.

Important Things To Know About Curbside Tree Pickup

Trees must be properly tagged to be collected.
Make sure the tag is clearly visible and the tree isn’t buried in snow.
Remove all ornaments, lights, tinsel, nails, tree stands, and plastic bags.
Trees without proper tags may result in a notice of violation and possible fine.
Residents are responsible for replacing lost or stolen tags.
Pickup may be delayed during snow events.

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No matter which option you choose, both drop-off and curbside pickup are environmentally friendly. Collected trees are chipped and recycled, returning them naturally back to the earth.