Christmas tree pickup in Chelsea, MAChristmas treepickup inChelsea.

What last year's notice said

Last season's city notice, published in the Chelsea Record, said City trash customers can place bare trees on the curb with their trash and recycling on their regularly scheduled collection days through Feb 1, 2026, with the tree stand, lights, decorations and plastic bags removed. Treat it as a guide for 2027 and check with 311 at 617-466-4209.

Buildings over 8 units use a private hauler, which may have its own rule.

A Chelsea three-decker's front stairs are steep; take the tree down trunk-first with a sheet around it. The curb is tight, so place the tree by the barrel and not in the street.

If it is missed

JUNKRUN's tree pickup is $40 for a tree already at the curb or door, $55 from inside (up to 8 ft) and $75 for a tree over 8 ft, flocked, artificial or carried from a second floor; a second tree at the same stop is $15 off. The season is Dec 26 to mid January. These holiday prices are still a draft in our system, so confirm when you text.

Chelsea tree checklist

• ✓Remove the stand, lights, decorations and any plastic bag.
• ✓Check the 2027 window with 311 (617-466-4209).
• ✓Set it at the curb on your trash day.
• ✓Keep it by the barrel, not in the street.
• ✓If the window passed, text for a private pickup.

Sources

Rules, fees and hours change, so confirm with Chelsea before you go.

• Chelsea Record: Curbside collection of Christmas trees: “Residents who are City trash customers can place bare trees on the curb along with their trash and recycling on their regularly scheduled collection days.” · accessed November 1, 2026
• City of Chelsea DPW: Trash, recycling and yard waste: “Residential properties with more than 8 units must contract with a City-approved waste hauler.” · accessed October 31, 2026