Houston Public Works, in partnership with Council Member Sallie Alcorn, is offering the Pumpkin Compost Drop-Off Program again this fall. The program provides Houston residents with a simple way to compost pumpkins after Halloween and support local composting efforts.

DATES

October 24 through November 28, 2026
No pumpkin drop-off on Nov. 26–27 (Thanksgiving holiday).

Locations

Houston Reuse Warehouse
9003 N. Main St., Houston
Tuesday – Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Westpark Recycling Center
5900 Westpark, Houston
Tuesday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

What To Know

• Free for City of Houston Residents
• Bring pumpkins, seeds and pumpkin pulp
• Remove candles, wax, stickers, paint, glitter, tape, plastic and all decorations before drop off
• No plastic, please. Bring pumpkins loose and drop them straight into the bin. If you bring them in a bag or box, empty the contents into the bin.
• Residential program only. Commercial loads are not accepted

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Pumpkin Compost Drop Off Program?
The Pumpkin Compost Drop Off Program is a seasonal initiative that gives City of Houston residents a convenient way to divert used and unused pumpkins from landfills and turn them into compost.

Do I need to show ID or proof of residency?
No. Residents are not required to show ID or register to participate.

What types of pumpkin materials are accepted?
Whole pumpkins, carved jack-o'-lanterns, and pumpkin pieces including flesh, seeds, and pulp are accepted. Natural, undecorated gourds and squash are also accepted. Place all items loose in the collection container. If you bring them in a bag or box, empty the contents into the bin.

Are there any limits on how many pumpkins I can drop off?
Residents may bring up to one truck bed of pumpkins. The program is intended for household use. Commercial loads will not be accepted.

What if I cannot get to a drop off center during program hours?
Pumpkins can only be accepted during program hours, please drop them off while collection sites are open. Items cannot be left outside the facility

Will pumpkins be accepted in curbside recycling?
No. Pumpkins are not accepted in curbside recycling and should not be placed in the recycling cart. If you’re looking for a way to recycle your pumpkins, please use the Pumpkin Composting Program.

Will pumpkins be accepted during the Thanksgiving holiday?
Pumpkin drop-off will pause during the Thanksgiving holiday closures. Collection sites will be closed on Thursday, November 26, and Friday, November 27, and pumpkins cannot be accepted on those days. The program will resume on Saturday, November 28.

Who can I contact for more information?
For assistance with Solid Waste Management services, call 311 Service Request line at 713-837-0311.