Taking down your Christmas tree in Merced? Here’s how to get rid of it
The new year is right around the corner.
Christmas lights are starting to come down and ornaments are being packed away across Merced.
Searching for an easy way to get rid of your old Christmas tree?
Here’s what you need to know about Christmas tree disposal in Merced:
How can I get rid of my Christmas tree in Merced?
According to the city of Merced website, the city Refuse Division handles all solid waste collection within city limits.
This includes regular trash and recycling pickup for homes and businesses, as well as special programs, such as street sweeping, seasonal leaf collection, bulky item drop-off and Christmas tree disposal.
“The city of Merced has two options for your Christmas tree disposal needs,” the city said on its website.
If you have a real, untreated tree, remove all garland, tinsel and decorations, then place the tree in your green organic waste container.
“The tree may need to be cut in half if the lid is unable to close,” the city said.
Will the city take flocked or fake Christmas trees?
Flocked or artificial trees cannot go in the green organic waste container, according to the city website.
Residential customers can take real, flocked or fake trees to the city’s bulky item drop-off site for free.
Where is Merced bulky item drop-off site?
The city makes it easy for single-family households to get rid of large items at its bulky item drop-off site.
“The city of Merced’s bulky item drop-off site was established to aid our residential service customers with bulky item disposal throughout the year,” the city said on its website.
Residents can take big items that won’t fit in their regular trash bin, including old Christmas trees.
This service is only for people who live in Merced and have city residential trash service.
Businesses and commercial customers cannot use this drop-off site, the city said on its website.
The drop-off site is located at the corner of North Highway 59 and Yosemite Avenue in Merced.
When are drop-off times?
The Merced drop-off site is open noon to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and on the first and third Saturdays of each month from 8 a.m. to noon.
Hours can change based on operational needs, the city said on its website.
The site is also closed on the following holidays:
- New Year’s Day
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Presidents Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
What do I need to bring to the drop-off site?
When you arrive at the Merced drop-off site, you will need to check in with city staff first.
Along with the items you’re dropping off, you must bring two forms of proof that you live in Merced, according to the city website.
You must bring a driver’s license or state-issued identification card.
You’ll also need to bring a recent bill or statement with your name and address on it, such as your city of Merced water bill or a credit card statement.
“City staff will check the items and direct you to each station needed,” the city said on its website.
