How to recycle or dispose of your Christmas tree free of charge

SAN ANTONIO — Christmas has just passed and your tree is probably still up because you’re not sure how to get rid of it. 

This year the Texas Disposal Systems is offering free Christmas tree recycling. 

TDS is accepting real unflocked Christmas trees, holly, pumpkins and other living decorations and organic materials for recycling through January 31. 

Trees and decorations must be free of flocking, lights, ornaments, metals and other non-living contaminants. You will be charged a $55 contamination fee if trees and decorations have not been cleaned. Artificial trees cannot be recycled. 

When you bring your tree and living decorations to the drop off locations TDS asks that you ensure materials are tied and secured. 

Garden-Ville Evans Rd. San Antonio
Mon-Fri 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. / Sat 7 a.m. – 12 p.m. / Sun Closed
7561 E. Evans Rd. San Antonio, TX 78266
(210) 651-6115

Garden-Ville SARA San Antonio
Mon-Fri 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. / Sat 7 a.m. – 12 p.m. / Sun Closed
1280 FM 1516 #2, Converse, TX 78109
(210) 483-1951

All collection sites will be open Dec. 26 through Jan. 31, with the exception of Jan. 1 when they will be closed for New Years. 

TDS also offers curbside pick-up for recycling from Dec. 26 through Jan. 31. Call 1-800-375-8375. for specific questions on your area’s service or to schedule a bulky pick-up to dispose of you artificial tree. 

The living decorations will be repurposed and transformed into nutrient-rich mulch and compost. The finished compost and mulches will be available for purchase at Garden-Ville Stores throughout Central Texas. 

TDS is a resource management company whose facility incorporates solid waste disposal, compost production and recycling operations. TDS has helped San Antonio and Austin communities recycle Christmas trees and other organic holiday décor for more than a decade. 

For a list of all of the collection sites, click here. 

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