Sumter County and the City of Sumter are once again encouraging residents to recycle their live Christmas trees through the annual Grinding of the Greens program, an environmentally friendly effort that turns discarded trees into reusable mulch.
The program allows residents to responsibly dispose of their Christmas trees while supporting sustainability efforts across the community. Donated trees will be ground into mulch, which will be made available to the public at no cost.
Residents are reminded that only live Christmas trees will be accepted. All decorations, including lights, tinsel, ornaments, garland, greenery, and tree stands, must be completely removed prior to donation. Artificial trees, wreaths, and other holiday décor will not be accepted.
Residents may donate trees at the following locations:
- County Recycling Centers
- Locations include: Rainaire Boulevard, Stamey Livestock Road, Cane Savannah Road, Pinewood Road, Queen Chapel Road, Bethel Church Road, Alligator Branch Road, Pleasant Grove Road, and Spencer Roaf.
- Dillon Park
- Trees may be dropped off at the entrance to Dillon Park off Frontage Road.
- City of Sumter Curbside Collection
The last day to drop off trees is January 15, 2026.
City residents may place their trees curbside. The City of Sumter will collect trees January 5–15, 2026.
Mulch produced from the recycled trees will be available for free pickup on January 17, 2026, from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at Dillon Park. Residents are encouraged to bring their own containers or bags, tools for loading, and a way to transport the mulch. Mulch will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and residents do not need to donate a tree to receive mulch.
For more information about Grinding of the Greens, residents may contact Sumter County Public Works at 803-436-2241 or City of Sumter Public Services at 803-436-2558.