Published on December 24, 2025
Holiday trees can be dropped off for recycling at the Recycling and Solid Waste Center (RSWC) from Dec. 26 through Jan. 31at no cost. No permit is required. The RSWC is at 160 Commercial Ave. in Ithaca, New York, and is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
All decorations, lights and other objects must be removed from tree before drop-off. Synthetic trees will not be accepted.
Upon arrival at the RSWC, visit the Scale House to get a holiday tree recycling ticket. Proceed to the yard waste drop-off area, hand the ticket to the attendant on duty and drop off your tree. Thank you, and happy holidays.
About Tompkins County Recycling and Materials Management Tompkins County Recycling and Materials Management develops and implements sustainable strategies that maximize diversion with the 4R's (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rethink) as a focal point. Learn more at RecycleTompkins.org, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Sign up to receive TCRMM updates and other county announcements via email or text.