Dumps Nearby

How to Dispose of Old Tires

Updated 2026-10-23

Old tires are one of the items landfills handle least willingly. They trap gas, float to the surface of a landfill and catch fire easily. That is why most states regulate them and why many dumps refuse them or charge per tire.

Why tires get special rules

EPA's archived scrap tire pages describe the problem. Tire fires release air pollution and oily runoff that can contaminate soil, surface water and groundwater. The oily material left behind is highly flammable. Tire piles also hold standing water, where mosquitoes breed, and rodents nest inside them. EPA cited industry data of about 290 million scrap tires generated in the US each year.

The same EPA material counts about 48 states with scrap tire laws or regulations. Minnesota passed the first one in 1985. States permit tire haulers, recyclers and storage sites, and many charge a tire fee on new tire sales or vehicle registrations to fund cleanup and recycling.

Option 1: Leave them at the tire shop

The easiest time to get rid of tires is when you buy new ones. Tire retailers usually keep your old tires for a disposal fee, or include the cost in the price where the state has no separate tire fee. Ask what the fee covers before you pay. Some shops also take used tires you bring in, usually for a per-tire charge and only up to a set number.

Option 2: Tire amnesty days and collection events

EPA points to local tire amnesty days, when residents can drop off a limited number of tires for free. Counties often hold them in spring or fall. Watch your county solid waste website or call the office. Limits on the number and size of tires are common, and tires on rims may be refused or cost extra.

Option 3: A landfill, transfer station or recycler

Some landfills and transfer stations accept tires in a separate area and charge per tire. Truck and tractor tires usually cost more than car tires, and tires still on rims may cost more again. Others refuse tires completely and send you to a tire recycler. EPA advises confirming that a facility accepts tires and checking its quantity and size limits before you go. See local options on our tire disposal page and current rates on dump fees.

Option 4: Reuse

A tire with legal tread can be sold or given away. Bald tires become planters, swings or garden borders. Keep reuse projects drained so they do not collect water.

Tips before you haul tires

What not to do

Never burn tires or dump them on vacant land. EPA tells residents to report illegal tire dumping to local law enforcement. Do not hide tires in a regular trash load either. Many sites check loads and will charge you or turn you away.

Cut down on tire waste

EPA recommends buying durable tires or retreads, keeping tires at the right pressure, and rotating and balancing them on schedule. Each of these steps makes a set last longer.

Sources: EPA (archive): Scrap Tires, Frequent Questions, EPA (archive): State Scrap Tire Laws

Frequently asked questions

Can I throw old tires in the trash?

Usually not. Most trash services refuse tires, and many landfills either refuse them or take them only in a separate area for a per-tire fee.

Will a tire shop take my old tires?

Most retailers keep your old tires when you buy new ones, usually for a disposal fee. Many also take tires you bring in for a per-tire charge, often with a limit on how many.

What is a tire amnesty day?

A local collection event where residents can drop off a limited number of tires for free. Your county solid waste office announces the dates.

Why do dumps charge more for tires on rims?

The rim has to be removed before the tire can be shredded or recycled. Taking tires off the rims first often lowers the fee, and the steel rims can go to a scrap metal recycler.