Where to Recycle Christmas Trees and Lights

Christmas Tree Recycling

For those of you who bought live Christmas trees this holiday season, here are a few places where you can recycle them in the Louisville area! Before dropping them off, be sure to clean off all decorations. Some locations recycle garlands and wreaths, too.

Bernheim Forest

Bernheim Arboretum is taking Christmas trees from December 26-January 31st. Dropoff point is at the turnaround in front of the main entrance. Feel free to plan a trip to explore all they have to offer as well. Be sure to check the website for holidays hours and closing times.

Metro Public Works

Starting Tuesday, Dec. 28, Louisville residents will be able to drop off their trees at three locations:

• East District Recycling Center, 595 N. Hubbards Lane
• Public Works Yard, 10500 Lower River Road
• Waste Reduction Center, 636 Meriwether Avenue

Each location will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday, through Jan. 29. All lights and ornaments must be removed from the tree before it’s dropped off.

Public Works will also over curbside pickup of Christmas trees within the Urban Services District. Residents with normal curbside yard waste pickup can set their tree and greenery out to be taken on the regular collection day. Trees shouldn’t be in plastic bags, and all decorations should be removed.

Christmas Light Recycling

Christmas Light Source

All proceeds from the program are used to purchase educational books and toys that are donated to Toys for Tots in early December. If you include your name and email address with your lights, they will email you a code that will be good for 10% off a single order of Christmas lights.

Holiday LEDs

If you send them your old Christmas lights for recycling, they will email you a coupon good for 15% off their LED Christmas lights. Be sure to complete the Christmas light recycling form on the website.

Some hardware stores, such as Lowes, Home Depot, and Ace Hardware often recycle old Christmas lights or offer coupons to purchase LED lights. Call your location to see if they recycle.