Boise’s FREE Way To Get Rid Of Your Christmas Tree

Boise’s Guide To Getting Rid Of Your Christmas Tree

Christmas is over, and almost overnight, it’s time to take the ornaments down, pack away the inflatables, and shove the lights into a tangled ball that you’ll hate yourself for leaving for next season. The only thing left is the tree. If you live in the Boise area, here’s how you easily get rid of your Christmas tree, in most cases for free.

Option 1: Use Your Boise Compost Cart

If you have a green compost cart at your house, the City of Boise says you can compost a real tree as long as you prep it correctly. I shouldn't have to say this, but it's worth mentioning that you can't compost a fake tree.

The days of setting the whole tree by the curb with a $20 tip or a case of beer are long gone. The City says whole trees left beside your cart may not be collected, so cutting it down matters.

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The City asks that you remove everything from the tree, including tinsel, and cut the tree into sections so that it fits into the compost bin, allowing the lid to fully close. Sections should be around 4 feet or less for easy dumping.

What If Your Tree Is Flocked? Get the Flock Out of Here

If your tree or wreath was sprayed with artificial snow, the City of Boise says it cannot be composted and should go in the trash. Same rules apply. Cut the tree it into smaller pieces so it fits in the bin and the lid closes.

Option 2: Free Drop Off At The Ada County Landfill

If you live in an apartment, don’t compost, or you want it gone now, Boise says you can take your tree to the Ada County Landfill for free from December 26, 2025, through January 10, 2026. You can check holiday hours at the Ada County Landfill website. 

The Ada County Landfill is at 10300 N Seamans Gulch Rd, Boise.

Bonus: Recycle Your Old Christmas Lights

Boise says broken or old lights can be recycled at places like The Reuseum, Pacific Steel and Recycling, Recycle Boise, and Western Recycling, plus HHW Mobile Collection Sites. Check hours before you go.