As the holiday season winds down, many Islanders are left with the task of disposing of holiday trees. The City encourages Island residents to recycle their trees and suggests choosing one of the following options:
Tree Chipping
The City of Mercer Island annual holiday tree chipping service is offered through Monday, January 13 for Mercer Island Residents only. Undecorated holiday trees can be brought to the City Maintenance Shop at 9601 SE 36th Street (located behind City Hall) during daylight hours where City staff will chip the tree (free of charge) and re-purpose it for use in City parks, trails, and open spaces.
When dropping off your holiday tree for chipping:
- Remove tree stands
- Remove all ornaments and lights
- Deliver your tree only during daylight hours
- Note: No flocked or artificial trees will be accepted
- Note: No garbage or other yard waste will be accepted
Tree Collection
Current yard debris customers can set holiday trees out on their regularly scheduled collection day. Trees must be free of flocking, tinsel, ornaments, and metal hangers, cut to 4-foot lengths, and tied into bundles less than 2 feet by 3 feet. Use biodegradable string or twine to secure bundles instead of nylon, plastic, or other synthetic materials.
(Note: Flocked trees are not recyclable and will not be accepted. Put flocked trees in the garbage.)
For more information about holiday tree chipping or disposal of your holiday tree, contact the City Maintenance Department at 206-275-7608.
