Green Bin Tips for the Summer

Did you know: Composting food scraps through your curbside green organics bin is one of the easiest ways to reduce waste and help the environment.

But if you’ve ever dealt with the smells, mess, or fruit flies that can come with it, you’re not alone. Thankfully, a few simple habits can make a big difference in keeping your bin fresh and hassle-free.

Your compost sidekick

Start by using a kitchen caddy to collect food scraps throughout the day. Many retailers offer caddies with charcoal filters built into the lid, which help absorb smells before they escape. Find one that fits your kitchen space and empty it regularly, especially during warmer weather.

Clean bin, happy bin

To make cleanup easier, line your caddy. Brown, kraft paper from favorite online retailer is ideal., A few sheets of newspaper, a paper bag, or paper towel also work well. They help prevent “gunk” at the bottom and absorb excess moisture.

Speaking of moisture, adding food-soiled paper like napkins, paper towels, and greasy pizza boxes can make a big difference. These items help soak up juices from wet scraps and keep your bin from getting soggy.

Keep it cool to stay fresh

To tackle possible odors, try freezing your food scraps  until bin day. You can also sprinkle a little baking soda in the bottom of your bin to tackle smells before they begin. Citrus peels do double duty, adding a pleasant scent while breaking down easily with the rest of the waste.

Shoo fly, don’t bother me

If flies are an issue inside your kitchen, it usually means the scraps have been sitting too long or the lid isn’t sealing properly. Keep your caddy closed, empty it every couple of days, and give it a quick clean each week with vinegar or soap and water.

If you are getting flies and bugs in your curbside green bin, try this simple but effective DIY fruit fly trap- set out a small dish of vinegar with a drop of dish soap nearby. Adding your food scraps on top of yard trimmings already in your green bin will help soak up excess moisture and limit pests.

Unsure if an item belongs in the green bin? Check with your local waste hauler or visit WastefreeSD.org to search places you can donate non-perishable items!

5 ways San Diegans can Reduce their Environmental Impact as Summer Sales Begin 

WasteFreeSD.org connects you to everywhere you can donate or recycle textiles in San Diego County — from clothes in good condition, to old socks, to sleeping bags 

SAN DIEGO — Summer sales are launching this week, and as you think about shopping and cleaning out your closet for new items, there are steps you can take to reduce your environmental impact. 

  1. Pause. When you see something you like, try waiting 30 days before buying. Avoiding impulse purchases helps ensure you are only buying items you will love and use. 
  2. Repair. Before you replace a worn item, consider patching, embroidering, or dyeing it to give it a new life.
  3. Swap. If you’re cleaning out your closet to make room for new items, try getting your clothes straight into the hands of someone else on sites like Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, a local Buy Nothing group or an in-person clothing swap.
  4. Donate. Use WasteFreeSD.org to find a thrift store or local charity that accepts donations of clothes in good condition.
  5. Recycle. If your clothing or textiles are beyond repair, use WasteFreeSD.org to find a facility that will recycle them into something new like insulation, carpet or even new thread. 

  Textile waste is a significant environmental issue, with the UN Environment Programme reporting that: 

  • Each year, 92 million tons of textile waste is produced globally. 
  • Textile production doubled from 2000 to 2015, while the duration of garment use decreased by 36 percent. 
  • Clothing and textiles make up 11 percent of all plastic waste. 
  • In 2023, only 8 percent of textile fibers were made from recycled sources. 

San Diegans can protect our community and planet by reducing consumption and making sure they handle old textiles responsibly. 

“We recognize that donating and recycling textiles keeps valuable materials out of our landfills and conserves resources for future generations,” says Steve Weihe, Recycling Specialist at the County. “Together with our community, we can turn unwanted clothing into opportunities for both people and the planet.” 

WasteFreeSD.org is a one-stop resource that offers information on how to keep household items, recyclables and household hazardous waste out of our crowded landfills. I Love A Clean San Diego maintains information on over 1,700 centers to help residents and businesses find hassle-free solutions. 

In 2024, the Waste Free SD website and hotline received nearly 50,000 web searches and calls from San Diegans looking to dispose of their waste responsibly.  

San Diegans can go to WasteFreeSD.org or call the bilingual hotline from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday to get connected to local resources that reduce waste. 

Hotline 

Incorporated San Diego residents: 1-800-237-BLUE (1-800-237-2583) 

Unincorporated San Diego County residents: 1-877-R-1-EARTH (1-877-713-2784) 

About I Love A Clean San Diego 

I Love A Clean San Diego (ILACSD) is an environmental nonprofit supporting residents and businesses of San Diego County. ILACSD was founded in 1954 as the San Diego War Against Litter Committee (WALC), in the 1970s, “I Love A Clean San Diego” became the slogan for the organization’s anti-litter campaign, and in 1980, it became the organization’s name. Over the last seven decades, ILACSD has since evolved into the nonprofit it is today, providing programs that go far beyond litter cleanups and serve as environmental catalysts. Our programs inspire and empower San Diegans to be environmental and waste-free living leaders in their communities. For more information or to volunteer, visit CleanSD.org or call (619) 291-0103. 

Easy Fourth of July Swaps for a Low-Waste BBQ  

The Fourth of July is one of America’s most celebrated holidays. It’s full of fireworks, BBQs, and all things red, white, and blue. But unfortunately, it’s also a holiday known for single-use waste, from plastic utensils to fast fashion flag tees that get worn once and tossed. 

The good news? You can host a fun, festive, and patriotic celebration without filling your trash can. Here are some easy, low-waste swaps that help you enjoy the day while caring for the planet: 

  1. Ditch the Disposable Partyware

The problem: Themed paper plates, plastic forks, and red plastic cups are convenient, but most end up in the landfill (and can’t be recycled due to food residue or mixed materials). 

Sustainable swap:
Use your everyday dishes or check thrift stores for affordable, reusable plates and silverware. Mismatched sets can be charming and create a casual, vintage picnic vibe. For drinks, use mason jars or washable cups label them with chalk markers so guests don’t lose track of theirs. 

Hosting a big group? Ask guests to bring their own reusable plate and fork, just like a potluck. 

If you must buy disposable partyware, go for compostable options like bamboo cutlery, unlined fiber-based paper plates, and plain paper napkins. These can go in your organic waste bin. Just make sure they’re free of plastic coatings or glitter. 

  1. Reuse (or Thrift) Your Decor

The problem: Plastic tablecloths, streamers, and cheap flags are often used once and tossed, ending up in landfills or as litter. 

Sustainable swap:
Get festive with reusable fabric napkins and tablecloths. You can find these at thrift stores in patriotic colors or patterns. Repurpose red, white, and blue blankets, tea towels, or scarves for décor. 

Add ambiance with string lights, fresh flowers, or potted plants. Skip the plastic and use what you already have or make your own reusable decorations like paper stars from scrap paper. 

  1. 3. Focus on Food Without the Trash

The problem: Convenience often leads to waste…prepackaged snacks, individually wrapped condiments, disposable trays, and more. 

Sustainable swap:
Serve food in bulk or homemade portions using reusable serving ware. Skip the single-serve ketchup packets in favor of bottles or small bowls. Cover leftovers with beeswax wraps or reusable containers to reduce food waste and plastic use.  

Don’t forget to plan for leftovers. Encourage guests to bring their own containers so everyone can take some food home. And when cleaning up, be sure to place any food scraps like fruit rinds, corn cobs, and veggie peels in your organic waste bin, not the trash. 

  1. Handle Propane Tanks Safely

The problem: After the grilling is done, leftover propane tanks are often tossed in the trash or recycling. This is unsafe and harmful to the environment. 

Sustainable swap:
Propane tanks are considered hazardous household waste (HHW) and must be disposed of properly to prevent fire risks and environmental damage. Never place them in curbside bins. 

Instead, take them to a certified HHW collection facility. Not sure where to go? WASTEFREESD.org can help you find a safe drop-off location near you. 

The Bottom Line: Freedom to Celebrate Differently 

Being patriotic doesn’t require disposable stuff. By making a few intentional swaps, you can create less waste, save money, and build traditions that are good for your family and the planet. 

So this Fourth of July, wear your red-white-and-blue proudly…just maybe not on a brand-new T-shirt you’ll never wear again. 

Curious where to recycle something after the festivities? Visit WASTEFREESD.org to find recycler that take everything from old flags to used décor. 

The Journey of a Tire

Every tire begins its life in a factory, where oil, natural rubber, steel, and carbon black are combined through an energy-intensive process. It takes about 7 gallons of oil to make just one tire — a small part of the millions produced annually to keep us moving.

Once on the road, the tire does its job: gripping pavement, carrying heavy loads, enduring sun and storms. But eventually, tread wears thin, and it’s time for retirement. That’s when the trouble can start.

Abandoned tires don’t just sit quietly. They leach chemicals into the earth that can travel to our waterways, and if ignited, burn with toxic smoke for days. Worse still, they don’t decompose for centuries.

But the story doesn’t have to end there.

When properly recycled, tires are reborn. Ground-up rubber becomes a variety of things including bike paths, or rubberized asphalt for smoother, quieter roads. Shredded tires can even be used as a construction material, turning trash into tools for the future.

Recycling a tire keeps it out of the environment and gives it a second life with a purpose.

But where can I recycle my tires in San Diego County?

WasteFreeSD.org  allows residents to quickly find verified recycling and proper disposal locations tailored to their zip code and specific needs. This means:

  • No guesswork — You’ll avoid places that don’t accept tires or charge surprise fees.
  • Up-to-date information — The site is constantly updated with current hours, contact info, and disposal guidelines.
  • Peace of mind — Listings are vetted to ensure compliance with California’s recycling standards, so you know your tires won’t end up in a landfill or worse.

Instead of searching blindly or risking improper disposal, a quick visit to WasteFreeSD.org  ensures you’re choosing the most eco-friendly option near you. Whether you’re a homeowner cleaning out a garage or a contractor with a pile of used tires, this site connects you with the right solution — fast.

By using WasteFreeSD.org , you’re not only clearing space — you’re helping to protect San Diego’s environment, waterways, and wildlife from tire-related pollution.

From Waste to Resource: The Journey of a Recycled Mattress in San Diego County

What happens when a mattress is landfilled, or worse, illegally dumped and left in nature? 

Aside from being an eyesore – landfilled or illegally dumped mattresses and box springs can harbor pests, and contribute to environmental degradation. The materials inside — including foam, synthetic fibers, and metal springs — aren’t meant to break down outdoors. They slowly deteriorate, polluting soil and water and potentially threatening local ecosystems. Wildlife can get trapped in the coils, and the flammable materials inside can even pose a fire hazard. (Mattress Recycling Council, California)

That’s why proper mattress disposal matters — and WasteFreeSD.org is here to help.

WasteFreeSD.org is a free resource provided by I Love A Clean San Diego and sponsored by the County of San Diego. Whether you’re cleaning out your garage, moving, or replacing an old bed, the site makes it easy to find nearby recycling centers and collection events that accept mattresses and box springs.

Some recycling options in WasteFreeSD include: EDCO’s Recovery and Transfer, Republic Services, Junk MD, Waste Management, and so many more resources!

The story doesn’t end when you choose to recycle your mattress and box spring — it actually gets a new beginning.

When mattresses and box springs are recycled, up to 80% of the materials can be recovered and transformed into useful new products. The steel springs are melted down and reused in construction or new appliances. The foam padding can become carpet underlay, the cotton can be reclaimed and repurposed and the wood frames are ground into mulch. What was once a wasted resource becomes a valuable part of the circular economy.

By choosing to recycle instead of dump, you’re doing more than just clearing out space — you’re protecting San Diego’s natural spaces, supporting local recycling jobs, and reducing the demand for raw materials. That old mattress might just become part of a playground, a carpet, or even another mattress.

So next time you spot an old mattress leaning against a dumpster or sitting by the side of a rural road, think about the future it could have had.  And when it’s your turn to let one go, don’t let it become waste, give it a second life as something new!.

Visit WasteFreeSD.org, search your ZIP code, and do your part to keep San Diego clean, beautiful, and waste-free — one mattress at a time.

Preventing Pollution at the Source: Top Litter Items Found at San Diego’s Largest Cleanup

Preventing Pollution at the Source: Top Litter Items Found at San Diego’s Largest Cleanup

Every spring, thousands of volunteers across San Diego County take to the streets, parks, and beaches to fight pollution during San Diego’s largest earth month cleanup event—Creek to Bay. While the goal is to remove waste from the environment, many commonly found items should not have ended up as litter in the first place.  Many of the items found during the cleanup require special handling to be properly recycled or disposed of safely.

What Happens to the Waste We Collect?

San Diego’s largest cleanup is also a recycling education experience for residents. Each Site Captain (the lead volunteer at each cleanup site) is given a recycling cheat sheet provided by San Diego County that determines how the litter will be sorted.

Here are three commonly found items during cleanups and what should be done with them to keep them out of our waterways:

1. Plastic Utensils

Plastic utensils, even if labeled “compostable” are considered landfill waste and should go in the trash.

2. Soft Plastics and Wrappers

Candy wrappers, chip bags, and other soft flimsy plastic belong in the trash. These items can clog the recycling facility sorting lines if put in your recycling bin. Many grocery stores around the county offer soft plastic drop off points. Find one near you at wastefreesd.org

3. Hard Plastics

Water bottles, plastic containers, and other hard plastics should be put in your recycling bin to give them a second life. Remember to be sure these items are empty and dry with minimal food and liquid residue before recycling.

What About Other Odd Finds?

Batteries, E-Waste, and HHW

Batteries, paint, and small electronics like headphones and chargers are some of the most hazardous items found during cleanups. If thrown in regular trash, they can leak toxic chemicals or even start fires in waste trucks and facilities. Staff and volunteers are trained to set these items aside so they can be taken to designated household hazardous waste facilities. You can find a safe disposal site for different Household Hazardous and Electronic Waste items at WasteFreeSD.org.

A Lasting Impact Beyond Cleanup Day

San Diego County Park Ranger Nathaniel Powell emphasizes the importance of protecting our diverse habitats beyond the beaches:

“Since San Diego County is the most biodiverse place in the continental United States, protecting habitats such as chaparral, coastal sage scrub, riparian, and mountain environments is as important as protecting our beaches. Most of the trash that ends up in our oceans comes from inland areas.”

Understanding where to properly dispose of these commonly found items to prevent them from littering our environment is key in ensuring protection of our beaches, parks, canyons, and more.

WastefreeSD.org is an all in one database for your recycling questions. The site will tell you different drop off points across the county for various hard to recycle items, keeping them out of our environment.

Clean Up with Us on April 26th

The County of San Diego, a proud supporter of Creek to Bay, ensures that volunteers have the resources they need to make a real impact. Whether you live near the coast, in a suburban neighborhood, or in a rural community, there’s a cleanup site that needs you.

On Saturday, April 26th, grab your friends and family and be part of the solution. Sign up at creektobay.org and help protect Your Neighborhood, Our Earth.

Spring Clean Your E-Waste: A Room by Room Guide

Spring Clean Your E-Waste: A Room-by-Room Guide

It started with a single, tangled charger. One moment, you’re looking for a cable, and the next, you’re knee-deep in a drawer filled with old flip phones, dead batteries, and forgotten gadgets. Sound familiar?

Spring cleaning isn’t just about dusting shelves and swapping out winter clothes—it’s a chance to tackle one of the biggest clutter culprits in our homes: electronic waste (e-waste).

E-Waste can be defined as  any electric or electronic items that have reached the end of their life, including items that power on or have power chords.

From the kitchen to the bedroom, old and broken electronics hide in plain sight, taking up space and collecting dust. But here’s the thing—these items don’t belong in the trash. They contain valuable materials that can be reused or recycled and hazardous components that must be disposed of responsibly.

Recycling e-waste is not only environmentally friendly but also energy-efficient. It requires less energy to recycle materials from old electronics than to mine and manufacture new ones. For instance, e-waste contains valuable metals such as gold, copper, and silver, which can be reclaimed and reused, reducing the need for new mining. ​

Let’s explore each room in your home to identify common e-waste items and learn how to dispose of them responsibly in San Diego County.

The Kitchen: 

The kitchen is where we cook, gather, and—if we’re honest—stockpile broken appliances that we swear we’ll fix one day. That toaster with a missing lever? The coffee maker that mysteriously stopped working? The blender that smells like burning every time you use it? If they are not something you plan to repair – these are all e-waste.

Old Appliances: Broken toasters, microwaves, blenders, and coffee makers are considered e-waste. These items contain electronic components that should not end up in landfills.​

Defunct Gadgets: Non-functional electronic kitchen scales, thermometers, or timers also qualify as e-waste.

The Living Room: 

Somewhere in your living room, an old remote control is wedged between couch cushions. In a corner, a DVD player collects dust while you stream movies instead. Gaming consoles from your childhood sit on a shelf, long abandoned but too sentimental to toss.

Outdated Entertainment Systems: Old televisions, DVD players, gaming consoles, and stereo systems can be recycled. Remote controls and game controllers that no longer work should be disposed of properly.

Lamps, Vacuums, Speakers, smoke detectors

The Bedroom: 

Your nightstand drawer might be a time capsule of past cell phones—some with flip screens, others with tiny keyboards. Tangled headphones, outdated smartwatches, and mismatched chargers add to the clutter. Laptops that gave up long ago still sit on a shelf, waiting for a second life that may never come.

Why Recycle?
Recycling just one million cell phones can recover 35,000 pounds of copper, 700 pounds of silver, and 75 pounds of gold! Imagine the impact if we all dug through our drawers.

Obsolete Computers and Accessories: Laptops, desktops, monitors, keyboards, old cell phones, tablets, chargers, and cables 

Lamps, light fixtures, space heaters, alarm clocks, extension cords, 

The Bathroom: 

Even small electronics contain materials that can be recovered and reused instead of wasted. Plus, tossing them in the trash can lead to dangerous chemical leaks.

Broken Personal Care Electronics: Electric toothbrushes, hairdryers, shavers, and other personal care devices with electronic components are considered e-waste when they no longer function.​

Outdated Health Gadgets: Non-working electronic thermometers, blood pressure monitors, and other health-related devices should be recycled to prevent environmental contamination.

So, Where Do You Recycle Your E-Waste in San Diego?

San Diego County makes it easy to recycle electronics. 

Find an e-waste recycler near you at wastefreesd.org. You can search by item type and location to ensure your e-waste is recycled properly.

To speak to a live representative, please call our toll free hotline between the hours of 8am-1pm Monday to Friday (except on holidays) or leave a message to receive a call back from our staff

Incorporated County Residents: 1-800-237-BLUE, (1-800-237-2583)

Unincorporated County Residents: 1-877-R-1-EARTH, (1-877-713-2784)

Before you recycle:
✔ Wipe all personal data from devices
✔ Check local regulations for special handling
✔ Consider donating functional items

The 2024/2025 Christmas Tree Recycling Guide in San Diego County

Christmas Tree Recycling Guide: How and Where to Recycle Real Christmas Trees in San Diego County

Among other benefits over fake trees, real Christmas trees can be composted or turned into mulch and returned to the earth. Trees sprayed with fake snow (flocked) trees cannot be composted.

SAN DIEGO COUNTY (Dec. 03, 2024) – San Diego residents can help close the loop on holiday waste by transforming their old Christmas trees into nutrient rich compost or mulch. When Christmas trees are recycled, they embark on a new journey that benefits the environment and the community. Through processes like mulching or composting, these trees are broken down into valuable organic material that enriches soil with essential nutrients. This process not only reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills but also plays a crucial role in lowering greenhouse gas emissions, as decomposing organic waste in landfills produces methane, a potent contributor to climate change.

For this year’s Christmas tree collection, the County of San Diego and I Love A Clean San Diego make it easy for residents to recycle their real Christmas trees. The countywide Christmas Tree Recycling Guide at WasteFreeSD.org, has a 2024/2025 listing for curbside and drop-off locations in the region.

According to the EPA, organic materials like Christmas trees, food, and yard waste are the number one material sent to landfills, composing two-thirds of the solid waste stream. By giving Christmas trees a second life through recycling, San Diego residents can contribute to a sustainable celebration of the holidays.

Follow some simple tips to ensure they can be recycled.

Christmas Tree Recycling Tips

  • Do not flock or buy flocked trees. Fake snow (flock) contains chemicals that interfere with the composting process
  • If you choose to use tinsel it must be completely removed (and placed in the trash) from your tree before it can be recycled. Best option, don’t buy tinsel. It is a wasteful single-use plastic.
  • Make sure to remove all ornaments, garland, lights, nails, tree bags, and tree stands (metal or plastic) before recycling.
  • For areas where curbside tree recycling is available, trees taller than four feet should be cut in half. It is recommended that pieces be under four feet.
  • Reuse or donate artificial trees that are in good condition. Purchasing new plastic trees create more waste and greenhouse gasses.
  • Don’t let real trees sit around too long after the holidays. They can dry out and become fire hazards.
  • Organic wreaths and similar decorations can be recycled with trees.

About I Love A Clean San Diego

Founded in 1954, I Love A Clean San Diego is an environmental nonprofit supporting residents and businesses of San Diego County through youth and adult education, and local action through impactful volunteer events and workshops. As San Diego’s most influential advocate for sustainability, I Love A Clean San Diego’s programs are an environmental catalyst, awakening passion and inspiring action to empower everyone to be leaders in conservation and waste-free living. Our community is passion in action to maintain and improve the health of the home we love. For more information, to volunteer or donate, visit CleanSD.org or call (619) 291-0103. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Christmas Tree Recycling Guide 2024/2025 – CURBSIDE PICKUP

The holiday season is here! Did you know Christmas trees can take hundreds of years to decompose in a landfill due to lack of oxygen to break it down?  Help us keep San Diego’s landfills clear by turning yours into mulch and compost!

Many communities in San Diego can get their Christmas trees picked up curbside! Please look for the dates drop off or pick up services are offered in your neighborhood.

Drop-off locations by community can be found here.

Still not sure where to take your Christmas tree for recycling after reviewing this list? Visit WasteFreeSD.org for more options or call I Love a Clean San Diego’s hotline for help from a live attendant Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

Incorporated County Residents, please call 1-800-237-BLUE

Unincorporated County Residents, please call 1-877-R-1-EARTH

Curbside Hauling Instructions by City

NORTH COUNTY SAN DIEGO 

Community

Collection Days

Instructions

Waste Hauler

Carlsbad

 December 26, 2024 – January 14, 2025
  • Republic services collects trees curbside on the same day as your regular compost collection day.
  • Please note: the trees are collected by a separate truck, not the regular compost truck that services your green composting cart.

Prepare your tree:

1. Remove stands, ornaments, lights and tinsel
2. Trees more than 6 feet in length must be cut in half
3. Trees with flocking or fire retardants are not accepted

 Republic Services
(760) 332-6464

Del Mar

 Year-round
  • Remove all decorations, including tinsel, lights, ornaments and tree stands.
  • Trees taller than 4 feet must be cut in half and placed next to your green waste cart.
  • When possible, residents are asked to cut down the tree so that it fits inside the green waste cart with the lid closed for collection.
  • Flocked and artificial trees cannot be recycled and must be disposed of through regular trash service. These trees must fit into the trash cart with the lid closed for collection.
EDCO Disposal (619) 287-7555

Escondido

 Year-round
  • No tinsel or ornaments
  • No nails
  • No tree stands
  • Cut tree to fit inside green organics cart on your regular trash collection date.
  • Flocked trees are not accepted
 Escondido Disposal (760) 745-3203

Encinitas

 Year-round
  •  Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and
    the tree stand
  • Cut tree in 4-foot lengths and trim off branches
  • Place trimmed tree inside your green organics cart with the lid closed
  • No flocked trees in green organics cart, flocked and artificial trees should go into landfill bin
 EDCO

Oceanside

 For Oceanside residents, holiday trees are collected curbside for three weeks after Christmas, until January 12 on customer’s scheduled collection day.
  • All decorations should be removed, including tree stands and lights
  • Trees should be cut in half and placed in the green organics cart with lid closed, or can be set curbside next to the green waste cart.
  • For trees placed curbside, a separate vehicle from the green waste cart collection truck will be picking up the trees on curbside services collection day.
  • Artificial and flocked trees are not recyclable, and must be placed in landfill cart with lid closed or may be collected curbside next to the landfill cart. If artificial trees have lights that are not removable, they must be recycled with  E-waste.
 Waste Management

Solana Beach

 Year-round
  • Cut tree in pieces 4-ft or smaller and put in green organics cart
 EDCO
(858) 350-8544

Poway

 Year-round
  • Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and the tree stand
  • Trees over four feet should be cut in half
  • Place trimmed tree inside your green organics cart with the lid closed
  • No flocked trees are accepted
  • Artificial trees are not recyclable and must be placed in trash
 EDCO

Ramona

 Year-round
  • Cut tree in 4-foot lengths and trim off branches.
  • Place tree inside green organics cart for collection on your service day.
  • No flocked trees.
 Ramona Disposal

San Marcos

 Year-round
  • Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and the tree stand
  • Cut tree in 4-foot lengths and trim off branches
  • Place trimmed tree inside your green organics cart with the lid closed
  • Artificial and flocked trees are not recyclable and must be placed in trash
 EDCO
(760) 744-2700

Vista

 Year-round
  • Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and the tree stand
  • Trees over four feet should be cut in half
  • Place trimmed tree inside your green organics cart with the lid closed
  • Artificial and flocked trees are not recyclable and must be placed in trash
 EDCO
(760) 727-1600

Unincorporated San Diego County 

Including: 4S Ranch, Bonsall, Borrego Springs, Fallbrook, Julian, Mount Laguna, Pala, Palomar Mountain, Pauma Valley, Ranchita, Santa Ysabel, Valley Center, and Warner Springs.

If you live in an unincorporated unincorporated regions of the county your curbside guidance varies depending on your contracted hauler. Please contact one of the following haulers for additional guidance.

 Year-round
  • Cut tree in 4-foot lengths and trim off branches.
  • Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and the tree stand.
  • Place tree inside green organics cart for collection on your service day. No flocked trees.
 Ramona Disposal

Unincorporated San Diego County 

Including: 4S Ranch, Bonsall, Borrego Springs, Fallbrook, Julian, Mount Laguna, Pala, Palomar Mountain, Pauma Valley, Ranchita, Santa Ysabel, Valley Center, and Warner Springs.

If you live in an unincorporated unincorporated regions of the county your curbside guidance varies depending on your contracted hauler. Please contact one of the following haulers for additional guidance.

 Year-round
  • Remove all ornaments, tinsel, garland, and plastic or metal stands.
  • Cut/section the tree in pieces 4ft or shorter. Place inside the correct container (flocked or plastic trees = trash, natural tree = green organics container*).
  • Drivers will not service trees left outside the container. All tree portions must be INSIDE the correct container. If you do not have a green container on-site, please place the natural tree in a separate location near the trash container, following the preparation guidelines mentioned previously.

EDCO (760) 844-2700

or Fallbrook Refuse

Unincorporated San Diego County 

Including: 4S Ranch, Bonsall, Borrego Springs, Fallbrook, Julian, Mount Laguna, Pala, Palomar Mountain, Pauma Valley, Ranchita, Santa Ysabel, Valley Center, and Warner Springs.

If you live in an unincorporated unincorporated regions of the county your curbside guidance varies depending on your contracted hauler. Please contact one of the following haulers for additional guidance.

If you currently have green waste services, Waste Management will collect and recycle Christmas trees for the first two weeks following Christmas from December 26 to January 9 on your scheduled collection day.

If you do not have green waste services, please contact Customer Service at (619) 596-5100 to schedule the pick-up of your Christmas tree for a nominal fee.
  • Trees taller than six feet must be cut in half.
  • Please remove all decoration including tinsel, lights, ornaments and tree stands and place in WM organics cart.
  • Flocked trees cannot be recycled, so please cut them to fit into your trash cart and they will be collected by your trash collector.
Waste Management

CENTRAL SAN DIEGO 

Community

Collection Dates

Instructions

Waste Hauler

Coronado

 Year-round
  • Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and
    the tree stand
  • Cut tree in 4-foot lengths and trim off branches
  • Place trimmed tree inside your green organics cart with the lid closed
 EDCO

City of San Diego

 Residents can use their City-provided curbside green bin to recycle their Christmas trees. Trees should be cut to fit into their green bin for pickup on collection day.
  • Both green and flocked trees (fake snow) are accepted.
  • Trees over 4-ft in length should be cut in half.
  • For Greenery, curbside, and drop-off sites, all tree stands, bags, netting, lights, ornaments, tinsel, and other tree decorations must be removed.
  • No artificial trees.
  • Please do not illegally dump any other items at the drop-off locations.
Environmental Service Department
(858) 694-7000

EAST COUNTY SAN DIEGO 

Community

Collection Days

Instructions

Waste Hauler

El Cajon

 Year-round
  • Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel, and the tree stand.
  • Cut tree in 4-foot lengths and trim off branches, then place in green organics cart with the lid closed.
  • No flocked trees
 EDCO
(760) 744-5615

La Mesa

 Year-round
  • Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and the tree stand
  • Cut tree in 4-foot lengths and trim off branches
  • Place trimmed tree inside your green waste cart with the lid closed
  • No flocked trees in green organics cart
 EDCO

Lemon Grove

 Year-round
  • Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and the tree stand
  • Cut tree in 4-foot lengths and trim off branches
  • Place trimmed tree inside your green organics cart with the lid closed
 EDCO

Santee

 December 26th, 2024 – January 9th, 2025 during regularly scheduled collection day
  • Residents can recycle their Christmas trees by placing the trees in their yard waste bins on their regular pick-up day.
  • Trees must be cut into maximum 4-ft sections and must fit into the green yard waste container.
  • Ornaments, tinsel and tree stands must be removed before being recycled.
  • Flocked trees cannot be recycled, but will be collected if cut into 4-ft sections and placed into the regular trash bin.
Waste Management

Unincorporated San Diego County

Including: Alpine, Boulevard, Campo, Crest, Dehesa, Descanso, Dulzura, Guatay, Jacumba, Jamul, Lakeside, Pine Valley,Potrero, Rancho San Diego, Spring Valley

If you live in an unincorporated unincorporated regions of the county your curbside guidance varies depending on your contracted hauler. Please contact one of the following haulers for additional guidance.

If you currently have green waste services, Waste Management will collect and recycle Christmas trees for the first two weeks following Christmas from December 26 to January 9 on your scheduled collection day.

If you do not have green waste services, please contact Customer Service at (619) 596-5100 to schedule the pick-up of your Christmas tree for a nominal fee.
  • Trees taller than six feet must be cut in half.
  • Please remove all decoration including tinsel, lights, ornaments and tree stands and place in WM Organics cart.
  • Flocked trees cannot be recycled, so please cut them to fit into your trash cart and they will be collected by your trash collector.
 Waste Management

Unincorporated San Diego County 

Including: Alpine, Boulevard, Campo, Crest, Dehesa, Descanso, Dulzura, Guatay, Jacumba, Jamul, Lakeside, Pine Valley,Potrero, Rancho San Diego, Spring Valley

If you live in an unincorporated unincorporated regions of the county your curbside guidance varies depending on your contracted hauler. Please contact one of the following haulers for additional guidance.

 Year-round
  • Remove all ornaments, tinsel, garland, and plastic or metal stands.
  • Cut/section the tree in pieces 4ft or shorter.
  • Place inside the correct container (flocked or plastic trees = trash, natural tree = green organics container).
  • Drivers will not service trees left outside the container. All tree portions must be INSIDE the correct container.
  • For more information, all customers can contact Republic Services Customer Service at 619-421-9400
Republic Services
(619) 421-9400

Unincorporated San Diego County 

Including: Alpine, Boulevard, Campo, Crest, Dehesa, Descanso, Dulzura, Guatay, Jacumba, Jamul, Lakeside, Pine Valley,Potrero, Rancho San Diego, Spring Valley

If you live in an unincorporated unincorporated regions of the county your curbside guidance varies depending on your contracted hauler. Please contact one of the following haulers for additional guidance.

 Year-round
  • Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and
    the tree stand
  • Cut tree in 4-foot lengths and trim off branches
  • Place trimmed tree inside your green organics cart with the lid closed
 EDCO

SOUTH BAY SAN DIEGO 

Community

Collection Days

Instructions

Waste Hauler

Chula Vista

 Year-round
  • Remove all ornaments, tinsel, garland, and plastic or metal stands. Cut/section the tree in pieces 4ft or shorter.
  • Place inside the correct container (flocked or plastic trees = trash, natural tree = green organics container).
  • Drivers will not service trees left outside the container. All tree portions must be INSIDE the correct container.
  • For more information, all customers can contact Republic Services Customer Service at 619-421-9400
 Republic Services

Imperial Beach

 Year-round
  • Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and the tree stand
  • Cut tree in 4-foot lengths and trim off branches
  • Place trimmed tree inside your green organics cart with the lid closed
 EDCO

National City

 Year-round
  • Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and the tree stand
  • Cut tree in 4-foot lengths and trim off branches
  • Place trimmed tree inside your green organics cart with the lid closed
 EDCO

Unincorporated San Diego County

(including Bonita)
If you currently have green waste services, Waste Management will collect and recycle Christmas trees for the first two weeks following Christmas from December 26 to January 9 on your scheduled collection day.

If you do not have green waste services, please contact Customer Service at (619) 596-5100 to schedule the pick-up of your Christmas tree for a nominal fee.
 

  • Trees taller than six feet must be cut in half.
    Please remove all decoration including tinsel, lights, ornaments and tree stands and place in WM organics carts.
  • Flocked trees cannot be recycled, so please cut them to fit into your trash cart and they will be collected by your trash collector.
 Waste Management

Unincorporated San Diego County

(including Bonita)

 Year-round
  • Remove all ornaments, tinsel, garland, and plastic or metal stands. Cut/section the tree in pieces 4ft or shorter. Place inside the correct container (flocked or plastic trees = trash, natural tree = green organics container*).
  • Drivers will not service trees left outside the container. All tree portions must be INSIDE the correct container. *If you do not have a green container on-site, please place the natural tree in a separate location near the trash container, following the preparation guidelines mentioned previously.
  • For more information, all customers can contact Republic Services Customer Service at 619-421-9400.
 Republic Services

Unincorporated San Diego County

(including Bonita)

 Year-round
  • Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and
    the tree stand
  • Cut tree in 4-foot lengths and trim off branches
  • Place trimmed tree inside your green organics cart with the lid closed
 EDCO

Contact your waste hauler to confirm collection dates and instructions.

Christmas Tree Recycling Guide 2024/2025- DROP OFF LOCATIONS

The holiday season is here! Dropping off your Christmas tree at a collection site is a great way to help divert your Christmas tree from the landfill following the holiday festivities.

Many communities in San Diego County have options for curbside Christmas tree recycling.

Still not sure where to take your Christmas tree for recycling after reviewing this list? Visit WasteFreeSD.org for more options, or call I Love a Clean San Diego’s hotline for help from a live attendant Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

Incorporated County Residents, please call 1-800-237-BLUE

Unincorporated County Residents, please call 1-877-R-1-EARTH

Drop Off Locations by City

COUNTYWIDE 

Drop-off locations are for Christmas Trees ONLY. Christmas trees do not need to be cut down for recycling at drop-off locations.

Community

Dates Available

Drop Off Address

Bonsall

 December 6th, 2024 – January 6th, 2025

   River Village

  Northwest parking lot
5256 Mission Road
Bonsall, CA 92003

Carlsbad

 Dec 26th, 2024 – Jan 14th, 2025
  • Calaveras Park
    2997 Glasgow Dr
    Carlsbad, CA 92010
  • Poinsettia Park
    6600 Hidden Valley Rd
    Carlsbad, CA 92011
  • Stagecoach Park
    3420 Camino del los Coches
    Carlsbad, CA 92009
  • City of Carlsbad Fire Station I
    1275 Carlsbad Village Dr.
    Carlsbad, CA 92008
  • Palomar Transfer Station
    5960 El Camino Real
    Carlsbad, CA 92008

Coronado

 December 26, 2024 – January 14, 2025  Glorietta Bay Park – boat ramp parking lot
 1975 Strand Way
Coronado, CA 92118 Cays Park- Parking lot off across from Fire Station
 99 Grand Caribe Isle
Coronado, CA 92118

 Public Works Yard

Second St. and A Ave.

Del Mar

 Dec 26th, 2024 – Jan 14th, 2025  Del Mar Public Works
2240 Jimmy Durante Boulevard
Del Mar, CA 92014

El Cajon

 Dec 26th, 2024 – Jan 13th, 2025  Wells Park
  1153 E Madison Ave.
El Cajon, CA 92021 Public Works Operations Yard
 1050 Vernon Way
El Cajon, CA 92020

 Drop-off locations are for Christmas Trees ONLY. Christmas trees do not   need to be cut down for recycling at drop-off locations.

Escondido

 Dec 26th, 2024 – Jan 6th, 2025  Kit Carson Park– south entrance, first parking lot on the right, across front the adult softball complex
3333 Bear Valley Parkway
Escondido, CA 92025 Jesmond Dene Park– parking lot next to the ball fields
2401 N Broadway
Escondido, CA 92026

Imperial Beach

 December 26th,  2024 -January 27th 2025   Imperial Beach Public Works
 495 10th St.
Imperial Beach, CA 91932Boys and Girls Club
  847 Encina Ave
Imperial Beach, CA 91932

 Drop-off locations are for Christmas Trees ONLY. Christmas trees do not     need to be cut down for recycling at drop-off locations.

La Mesa

December 26 2024 – January 12 2025

 

  EDCO Station 
8184 Commercial Street
La Mesa, CA 91942
Hours:
Mon -Fri 5:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Sat 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Sun 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Lemon Grove

 December 26th, 2024 -January 12th, 2025  

 Treganza Heritage Park – formerly Civic Center Park
3200 Main Street
Lemon Grove, 91945

National City

 December 26th, 2024 – January 14th, 2025   Las Palmas Park – Pool Parking Lot and Kimball Park
1800 E 22nd St.
National City, CA 91950

Otay Mesa

 January 1 2025 – January 31 2025  Otay Mesa Compost Facility
434 Alta Road
San Diego, CA 92154
Mon-Fri: 6:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.To qualify for free drop off, Christmas trees must:• come from personal         residences/non-commercial sources.
• be free of ornaments, stands, flocking and netting.
• No artificial trees accepted

Oceanside

 January 1 2025 – January 31 2025  El Corazon Compost Facility
3210 Oceanside Blvd.
Oceanside, CA 920567:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. | Monday through Friday
8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. | Saturday
Closed SundayTo qualify for free drop off, Christmas trees must:• come from personal residences/non-   commercial sources.
•  be free of ornaments, stands, flocking and netting.
• No artificial trees acceptedhttps://agriserviceinc.com

Ramona

 Dec 27th-December 30th 2024 and Jan 3-6 2025  

 Ramona High School
1401 Hanson Street, Ramona, 92065

 The Village Shopping Center in SD Country Estates
23658 San Vicente Rd
Ramona, CA 92065

 8AM-3PM

 No Flocked Trees

San Marcos

 December 26, 2024 -January 6, 2025  Senior Center
111 Richmar Ave
San Marcos, CA 92069

San Pasqual Valley

 December 26th, 2024 – January 6th, 2025  San Pasqual Valley Soils
16111 Old Milky Way,
Escondido, California 92027(760) 746-4769
 www.spvsoils.comHours of operation:
Monday – Friday: 6:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Saturday: 6:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Sunday: Closed

No flocked or artificial trees accepted. Ensure there is nothing on the trees.

Santee

 December 26th, 2024 – January 9th, 2025  Waste Management Recycle Center
925 O’Connor Street,
El Cajon, CA 92020Monday-Friday open 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.Saturday open 7:00 a.m. to .12:00 p.m.Republic   Customers may also take trees to Sycamore LandfillSycamore Landfill
8514 Mast Blvd.
Santee, CA 92071
Monday- Friday 8:00 am- 3:00 p mJanuary 8- 19, 2025Please bring proof of bill (electronic or paper accepted)

Solana Beach

 December 26th 2024- January 17, 2025  La Colonia County Park
 715 Valley Ave
Solana Beach, CA 92075 Solana Beach City Hall
 635 S. Highway 101
Solana Beach, CA 92075

Valley Center

 December 26 2024 – January 6 2025  Valley Center Elementary School
Lower parking lot
28751 Cole Grade Road
Valley Center, CA 92082

Vista

  December 26, 2024 – January 6, 2025

 Public lot on Vale Terrace Drive at Williamston

 located across the street from Vista Community
1000 Vale Terrace Drive
Vista, CA 92084

 Parking lot on the corner of S. Melrose Drive & Shadowridge Drive
 Vista, CA 92081

CITY OF SAN DIEGO – Drop Off Locations

All locations are open during daylight hours

Community

Dates Available

Drop-off Address

Carmel Valley

 Dec 26th 2024 – January 16th, 2025  Carmel Valley Recreation Center
3777 Townsgate Dr. (lower parking lot)

Encanto

 Dec 26 2023 – January 23, 2024  Cielo Drive at Woodman Street

Golden Hill

 Dec 26th 2024 – January 16th, 2025  Golden Hill Recreation Center
2600 Golf Course Dr.

Logan Heights

 Dec 26th 2024 – January 16th, 2025  Memorial Recreation Center
2902 Marcy Ave.

Miramar

 Dec 26th 2024 – January 16th, 2025  The Greenery at the Miramar Landfill

5180 Convoy St. (north of state Route 52)

Mission Bay

 Dec 26th 2024 – January 16th, 2025  Seaworld Drive at Pacific Highway

Mountain View

 Dec 26th 2024 – January 16th, 2025  Ocean View Blvd. @ 40th St. (north side)

Ocean Beach

 Dec 26th 2023 – January 23rd, 2024  Robb Field Recreation Center
2525 Bacon St.

Otay Mesa / Nestor

 Dec 26th 2024 – January 16th, 2025  Montgomery Waller Community Park (lower parking lot on the southeast corner of Palm Avenue and Beyer   Boulevard)

Pacific Beach

 Dec 26th 2024 – January 16th, 2025  Kate Sessions Memorial Park, corner of Mt. Soledad Road and Loring Street

Rancho Bernardo

 Dec 26th 2024 – January 16th, 2025  Rancho Bernardo Recreation Center
18448 W. Bernardo Dr.

Rancho Penasquitos

 Dec 26th 2024 – January 16th, 2025   Canyonside Recreation Center,
12350 Black Mountain Rd.

San Diego State University

 Dec 26th 2024 – January 16th, 2025  Parking Lot 17 off of Alvarado Rd.

Scripps Ranch

 Dec 26th 2024 – January 16th, 2025  Ocean View Blvd. @ 40th St. (north side)

Tierrasanta

 Dec 26th 2024 – January 16th, 2025  Tierrasanta Community Park (Pool Parking Lot)
11220 Clairemont Mesa Blvd

University City

 Dec 26th 2024 – January 16th, 2025  Standley Community Park (Parking Lot)

3585 Governor Drive

Oak Park

  TEMPORARILY CLOSED