As the holiday season winds down, St. Louis Park is gearing up to ensure that the transition into the New Year is as clean and eco-friendly as possible. Starting January 5th through the 23rd, local authorities are offering two ways for residents to say goodbye to their live Christmas trees without incurring additional costs. For those who have city solid waste services, you can place your cut tree—measuring 6 feet or shorter—out at your usual collection spot on your scheduled trash day, according to a recent bulletin by the city of St. Louis Park.
It's crucial to note that residents are required not prematurely set out their trees before January 5th or foolishly delay past January 23rd. Those who miss the disposal window will have to schedule—and pay for—a bulk pickup. Additionally, any resident, including those from multifamily dwellings that do not receive city solid waste services, is afforded the opportunity to drop off their live trees at the city’s brush drop-off site, located at 6215 Cedar Lake Road on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
In order to streamline the disposal process and adhere to environmental standards, all trees must be free of decorations before being relinquished for collection. "If you use a bag to keep needles from creating a mess inside your home, just remember to remove it and place it in the trash before you set your tree at the curb," the city's announcement reminds residents. It also clarifies that bagged trees will not be accepted, and additional items such as wreaths and garlands should be disposed of in the trash due to the presence of wire.
The city's efficient tree disposal program not only helps residents to conveniently manage post-holiday cleanup but also contributes to maintaining a green community. Proper disposal of trees ensures that they can be chipped into mulch or otherwise responsibly recycled, reducing landfill waste and reusing natural resources in a manner that respects the earth. For any further questions or to look up more information on the proper disposal of holiday trees, citizens of St. Louis Park are encouraged to review the guidelines in the city’s bulletin.
