Calgary Christmas tree pickup and disposal

Real Christmas trees can be composted through your green cart when cut to the City’s size limits. A whole tree left beside the cart is not collected.

Checked against City of Calgary sources on September 10, 2026

Prepare a real tree for the green cart

1. Remove the stand, lights, decorations, tinsel and every piece of string or wire. Do not wrap the tree in plastic.
2. Cut branches and trunk pieces to less than 1.25 metres long and less than 15 centimetres in diameter.
3. Fill the green cart first and keep its lid closed. Put remaining eligible pieces into paper yard-waste bags; roll the tops closed.
4. Keep each paper bag under 20 kg and at least 0.5 metres beside the cart. Check current extra-bag collection limits during busy periods.

Look up your address for the next published green cart date. Winter collection is less frequent than summer collection; do not assume that last week’s pickup means there is another this week.

Seasonal Christmas tree drop-off

At our September 10, 2026 review, the City’s temporary tree drop-off sites were closed and the 2027 program dates had not been announced. Check the official Christmas tree program page when the holiday season approaches. Do not leave trees at a former seasonal location.

A City Eco Centre is another disposal option; check hours and applicable fees. Seasonal free programs and their dates should be confirmed before travelling.

Artificial trees, wreaths and lights

An artificial tree does not belong in the green cart. Offer one in usable condition for reuse; otherwise use an Eco Centre for a large tree, or the black cart only for pieces that fit safely with the lid closed. Remove electrical components and look up electronics disposal separately.

Natural greenery can be composted after wires, frames, decorations and other non-compostable parts are removed. Read the tree item answer and green cart guide for related preparation rules.