How to Dispose of Tree Branches: 6 Options to Consider

If you’re clearing your property of unwanted trees or conducting yard cleanup, your next step is determining how to dispose of tree branches. Luckily, you have many different options. Here are six ways to get rid of trees and their branches, along with tips for what to do with tree branches.

1. Donate Tree Branches to Local Yard Waste Recycling or Municipal Composting Programs

If you don’t know how to remove yard waste, many villages, towns, HOAs, and other local organizations offer municipal composting programs or local yard waste recycling. You might be near a local transfer station where you can take the downed trees, logs, or branches for disposal.

Additionally, many townships pick up yard debris on specified dates each year, usually in the spring and fall. Check what programs are available in your area, then make arrangements to transport the yard debris to the proper location or schedule a pick-up. You might need to follow specific rules for bundling and placement.

2. Give Tree Branches Away

This might sound straightforward, but if you know neighbors, lumber mills, woodworkers, or others who could use free wood, simply give the tree branches away. You might have to encourage a company or a few friends with trucks to do some heavy-duty lifting, but you can rest at the end of the day knowing the wood is no longer in your hands.

3. Repurpose Tree Branches

Want to learn how to dispose of tree branches in a way that repurposes them? There are many different ways to reuse valuable wood from fallen trees, with our favorites detailed below.

• Store for Firewood: Storing chopped-down trees as firewood is a fairly simple way to get rid of branches. Keep in mind that not all trees can be used for firewood. 

• Turn Into Mulch/Wood Chips: If your trees are smaller or you’ve already hired a tree service company to come on-site, consider turning your chopped trees into wood chips. You can also take cut-down trees to a brush chipping company in your area.

• Create a Property Line: Another way to get rid of cut-down trees is creating a property line, such as a charming rustic fence. You can also go the eco-friendly, low-maintenance route by rolling the logs in a single-file line to the edges of your property as a barrier.

• Use as Compost: If you don’t mind adding a bit of wood to the natural scenery on your property, one way you can dispose of tree cuts is by stacking them and letting them break down. Better yet, you can create compost sites from the stacked wood and pile up unsightly branches on the inside. 

• Create a Habitat: While deadwood might not look as beautiful as live trees, it has an equally important role. Deadwood provides a habitat for certain animals, like insects, butterflies, bees, birds, reptiles, and small mammals. It can also make a great home for various wild plant species. 

• Use as Furniture: Depending on the species and quality of wood, you might be able to use stumps and straight branches as legs for chairs, tables, and even stair railings. This project will add custom furniture to your home while also preserving the memories of the trees that used to be on your property.

4. Rent a Dumpster for Tree Branches 

If you have a lot of fallen or pruned branches, and you need a flexible schedule to get rid of them, consider renting a dumpster. Unlike hiring a junk hauling company—which will pick up all your waste during one appointment—dumpster rentals last about a week on average. This extended time frame will give you the freedom to work at your own pace. The cost to rent a dumpster ranges from $290 to $480 and depends on the dumpster size you choose and the length of your rental.

5. Hire a Tree Service

If you want your tree demolition to be out of sight and out of mind quickly, then the easiest solution is hiring a tree service company. This option might cost more in the long run, but it will almost certainly save you time—especially if you are removing many trees and will have lots of cut-down pieces remaining afterward. 

A tree removal pro knows how to get rid of cut-down trees efficiently and can also use a stump grinder to remove stumps and roots, plus ensure that power lines are clear of large trees. Not to mention, a professional can inspect all trees on your property to help identify any sickly or unhealthy trees and remove them at the same time.

6. Burn Brush on Site

A last-resort option to dispose of tree branches is burning the wood in place. Using fuel to burn wood is not legal in all areas, so always check with your local officials first. Choose a cool, calm day for this method, and don't start a fire during periods of drought or high winds.

Another note: Most wood needs to be properly dried before burning for optimal results and to minimize smoke. To do this, stack it off the ground to allow plenty of airflow from all sides. Covering the top of the stack with a tarp can protect it from rain, but keep the sides open for air circulation. 

Tips for Dealing With Tree Branch Disposal

Now that you know what to do with tree branches, read these tips to ensure the job is done right.

• Don't Delay It: It may be tempting to dispose of tree branches later. After all, life is busy, and you likely have a lot on your plate. However, putting it off can lead to piles of branches that cause hazards for you and your family. Instead of neglecting tree branches, do your best to get rid of them right away.

• Wear Safety Gear: Branches are often sharp—it’s essential to dress appropriately during tree branch removal. Ideally, you should wear safety gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, and pants. 

• Remember the Stumps: There’s a good chance you’ll be left with stumps after you get rid of unwanted trees. Since stumps can quickly become a hazard, consider renting a stump grinder or hire a pro to safely remove them.

• Ensure Loads are Tied Down: You may want to pack as many tree branches into a trailer as possible, but it’s crucial to make sure each load is properly tied down. Otherwise, the branches can fall out of your trailer.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro to Dispose of Tree Branches

When it’s time to dispose of your tree branches, you may debate doing the job yourself or hiring a professional yard cleanup service. Before taking on the job, consider whether you’re up to the physical labor and can complete the job safely. Do you have the proper equipment or gear, such as eyewear and thick gloves? The disposal method you prefer will also influence your decision. Collecting a few branches for your regular yard waste pick-up is fine for DIY, but dismantling an entire fallen tree and hauling it away can be too labor-intensive for a homeowner. 

Cost to Hire Yard Cleanup Professionals

If you decide to leave the tree branch removal to a yard cleanup pro near you, expect an average cost between $150 and $350. It could cost more or less depending on the size of the project. The amount of debris you have is typically the biggest influencing factor.