City Launches Post-Holiday Recycling Drive With Curbside Tree Collection Starting Monday

Pasadena’s Public Works Department will begin a post-holiday recycling initiative encouraging residents to recycle trees and wrapping paper to promote sustainability and reduce waste.

The curbside pickup program will run from Monday, Jan. 6 to Friday, January 17, aligning with residents’ regular collection days. During this period, trees can be placed out on the street outside of refuse containers on regular pickup days.

After Jan. 17, trees must be cut down.

“Residents are asked to trim their trees to fit in yard waste containers for recycling, ensuring that the lid can close,” the department announced, referring to conditions that apply after Jan. 17.

The initiative establishes specific disposal protocols: Natural trees qualify for curbside recycling after removal of all stands, ornaments, and lights.

Flocked trees require light removal before disposal in mixed waste containers with the lid closed.

For artificial trees in good condition, the department recommends donation or resale before considering landfill disposal.

Recyclable holiday materials include plain wrapping paper, plain holiday greeting cards, cardboard boxes, plain paper bags, and #1 and #2 plastics.

Non-recyclable items include metallic or glittery wrapping paper, bows, and musical greeting cards — whose batteries must be removed and dropped off at participating libraries.

Holiday lights disposal follows specific guidelines: Working lights can be donated or shared with neighbors. Non-functioning lights, considered e-waste, should not be placed in trash or recycling but must be taken to One-Day E-Waste Events or Solvents, Automotive, Flammables and Electronics Collection Centers.

Residents seeking additional information can contact the Citizen Service Center at (626) 744-7311 for guidance on the City’s recycling program.