Curbside holiday tree collection and guidelines

Published on December 22, 2025

Holiday tree collection will take place starting Friday, Jan. 2 on your regularly scheduled pick-up day. All stands, ornaments and lights must be removed from trees to be picked up and trees must be kept out of bike lanes and out of the storm gutter.

The holiday tree composting guidelines are as follows:

• All decorations, such as lights, tinsel, tree stands and nails must be removed. Flocked trees are accepted.
• Trees must be placed next to the green compost cart.
• Larger trees (over eight feet) must be cut into pieces and placed next to or inside the green compost cart.

After Jan. 31, trees must be cut to fit inside compost carts (lid must be closed) for regular pickup. If a special pickup is needed, please contact Recology San Mateo County at 650-595-3900 or visit the Recology San Mateo website.

For apartment or condominium managers, please contact Recology San Mateo County to arrange for collection of holiday trees. Trees can be collected in piles or in a drop box for no additional charge. For more information, please call Recology at 650-595-3900.