How Boston-area residents can get rid of Christmas trees
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Now's the time to put away your Christmas ornaments and haul your tree to the curb.
Why it matters: Boston-area cities turn old trees into compost and mulch, making use of them before they turn brown, pose a fire hazard and stink up your living room.
Be smart: Get rid of any ornaments or lights before placing your trees outside.
- Don't put it in a bag, city officials say.
Here's how to dispose of your Christmas tree before it drops all its needles.
Boston
The city picks up trees the first two weeks of January on the same day as recycling pickup.
- Trees should be on the curb by 6am.
Cambridge
Cambridge is collecting Christmas trees on its usual trash and recycling pickup days until Jan. 14.
- Afterward, residents can take their old trees to the city's recycling center during open hours until Feb. 1.
Somerville
The city will pick up trees on trash day throughout January.
- After that, you're on your own.
Brookline
Tree collection runs from late December through the last full week in January.
- Place the tree on the curb on trash day.
Newton
Newton will collect trees, evergreen sprigs and wreaths without plastic or wire starting on Monday through Jan. 17.
- Make sure your trees are on the curb by 7am.
Waltham
Curbside tree pickup runs through mid-January (for three weeks following Christmas).
Quincy
Tree collection runs from Dec. 30 through Jan. 10
Watertown
The city will collect trees on trash day, starting Monday through Jan. 20.
Revere
Revere will pick up trees during the first two full weeks in January.
Medford
Medford will pick up trees next week during trash collection.