PRESS RELEASES

October 3, 2007 - The City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) will begin a Tree Waste Recycling Pilot Program to save significant tax dollars and to develop a successful green waste recycling system that may be expanded to all of Houston. This one (1) year pilot program will begin on October 15, 2007 and will affect approximately 47,000 households in certain Southwest and Northwest communities.

"We are always exploring ways to better preserve our environment and tax dollars. Through the diversion of this material from the landfill we will save on disposal costs, extend the life of area landfills, and have this material composted into useable products such as mulch and soil amendments," said SWMD Director Harry Hayes. "Studies indicate that 30-40% (by weight) of the material collected in the "Heavy Trash Program" consists of recyclable "Tree Waste", which can be diverted from landfills which will result in monies saved that can be used for other city services, such as funding for libraries, parks, police and firefighters," Hayes added.

In designated months, tree waste (tree limbs, branches, and stumps) will be collected exclusively on the scheduled heavy trash day in the affected neighborhoods. No furniture-type wood will be accepted. Junk waste (heavy trash) will be collected in January, May and September 2008.

• Southwest Pilot Area Map (.pdf)
• Northwest Pilot Area Map (.pdf)
• Mayor's Letter to Residents (.pdf)
• Heavy Trash Maps, Via ZIP Code (.html)

Houston residents may dispose of heavy trash and tires at one of the City's Neighborhood Depositories (listed below). Each user must provide proof of residency in the form of a Texas Driver's License or ID and a current utility bill or city property tax receipt. Locations are open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hours change with the end of daylight savings time.