Free Live Tree Disposal Options

Beginning early January 2021, there will be a number of free ways for residents to dispose of their live Christmas trees.

How to prepare your tree for disposal

All trees left curbside or at any of the drop-off locations must meet the following guidelines:

  • Trees taller than six feet must be cut in half
  • All decorations and hardware must be removed including tinsel, lights, garland, ornaments, nails, and stands
  • Trees should not be placed in bags
tree on side of curb

OPTION 1: FREE CURBSIDE COLLECTION

For free curbside collection of a live Christmas tree, yard waste customers as well as non-yard waste customers must place a request through Durham One Call.

Place your request in one of the following ways:

Details:

  • Requests for curbside service may be submitted beginning Monday, January 4 and must be made no later than Friday, February 5 at 4:30 p.m. 
  • Curbside live tree collections will take place from January 9 through February 6. 
  • A tree collection will not count toward a free brush collection for yard waste customers.

OPTION 2: FREE DROP OFF AT WASTE CENTER OR SELECT PARKS

Live Christmas trees will also be accepted for free disposal at the following City facilities. 

When using the free drop-off locations, residents and City staff will be required to maintain a social distance of at least 6 feet and wear a face covering at all times while on City of Durham property.

dumpster icon

Waste Disposal and Recycling Center

2115 E. Club Blvd.

Free tree drop-off dates:
Monday, January 4 through Saturday, February 6

Hours:
7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday
7:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday

After you enter the main entrance for the Waste Disposal Center, proceed straight to the scalehouse where staff will direct you to the drop-off location.


Parks and Recreation

Select Park Locations

C.M. Herndon Park, 511 Scott King Rd.
Valley Springs Park, 3805 Valley Springs Rd.
Rock Quarry Park, 701 Stadium Dr.
Twin Lakes Park, 435 Chandler Rd.
Southern Boundaries Park, 3400 Third Fork Rd.
Bethesda Park, 1814 Stage Rd.

Free tree drop-off dates:
January 9, 16, 23, 30, and February 6

Hours:
7 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Solid Waste Management crews will be on site each of these Saturdays to assist with tree collections.