Old tires are everywhere in garages, driveways, and sometimes alongside roads where they really shouldn’t be. Knowing how to dispose of tires responsibly not only protects the environment but also keeps you on the right side of the law and out of trouble with your neighbors.
In this guide, you’ll learn what to do with old tires, where to dispose of tires safely, the latest U.S. tire disposal rules (2025), and how much it might cost. This piece covers real facts and real options, written clearly so anyone can understand and act.
Why Proper Tire Disposal Matters
If you’ve ever wondered can you throw away tires with regular trash, here’s the short answer: no and that’s for good reasons.
Tires do not break down easily. They are made from synthetic rubber, steel, and chemical additives, which means they can sit in landfills for decades without decomposing. This stubbornness creates problems:
- Landfill space gets eaten up fast. A tire takes up a lot of room because about 75% of it is just empty space, making it inefficient to pack into a dump.
- They trap gases and float up in landfills, even piercing liners.
- Illegal dumping hurts ecosystems. Tires in rivers, forests, or fields act like trash magnets. They collect rainwater and become breeding spots for mosquitoes.
- Burning them releases harmful toxins. Open burning emits dangerous chemicals that impact air and water quality.
If you dumped your old tires behind a barn thinking no one would notice, think again. There’s a good chance your local authorities do notice, and they might fine you for it.
2025 US Tire Disposal Laws & Bans
United States tire disposal rules mainly come from state and local governments, but their goals are shared in most jurisdictions: reduce stockpiling, avoid environmental damage, and promote recycling.
Here’s what you need to know:
1. Many States Ban Tires in Regular Landfills
Across the country, states commonly prohibit whole tires from landfill disposal unless they’re cut into smaller pieces first. Smaller pieces reduce hazards and help landfills function better.
2. Open Burning Is Illegal Nearly Everywhere
Most places strictly forbid burning old tires. Burning releases toxic smoke that can harm lungs, soil, and waterways. People caught burning tires may face fines or even criminal penalties.
3. Local Programs and Grants Exist
Some counties and cities now run tire disposal events or recycling grant programs to encourage neighbors to recycle rather than dump tires illegally. These events often offer free drop-offs.
4. Retailers May Be Required to Accept Old Tires
Many states have rules that require tire sellers to take back old tires when you buy new ones either included or via a small fee that funds disposal and recycling.
If you’re unsure about specific rules in your area, check with your county waste department or state environmental agency. They can tell you exactly where to dispose of tires locally.
10 Ways to Dispose of Tires
1. Return Tires to Tire Retailers
Best for: When buying new tires
When you purchase new tires from retailers like Discount Tire, Tire Rack, Costco, or Walmart, they’ll typically handle disposal of your old ones.
How it works:
- Most retailers charge a disposal fee of $2-$5 per tire
- This fee is often rolled into your purchase price
- The retailer sends old tires to EPA-certified recyclers
- No additional effort required from you
Pros:
- Most convenient option
- Guaranteed proper disposal
- Often included in new tire purchase
Cons:
- May not accept tires if you’re not buying new ones
- Fees can add up for multiple tires
Pro Tip: Some tire retailers like Discount Tire offer free tire disposal when you purchase new tires from them. Always ask about disposal fees before completing your purchase.
2. Drop Off at Tire Recycling Centers
Best for: Disposing multiple tires or when not buying new ones
Specialized tire recycling facilities accept old tires and process them into reusable materials.
How it works:
- Search online for “tire recycling center near me” or use directories like Earth911.com
- Call ahead to confirm acceptance, hours, and fees
- Bring tires during operating hours
- Pay disposal fee (typically $1-$5 per tire)
Pros:
- Accepts tires in various conditions
- Direct recycling you know tires are being processed properly
- Often accepts specialty tires (motorcycle, trailer, etc.)
Cons:
- Requires transportation to facility
- May have quantity limits
- Fees apply
What to expect: Most recycling centers charge $1-$3 per standard passenger tire, $3-$5 for larger tires, and $10-$25 for truck or tractor tires.
3. Schedule Pickup with Junk Removal Services
Best for: Large quantities or when you can’t transport tires yourself
Professional junk removal services like Junk Masterz? will pick up tires from your property.
How it works:
- Schedule online or by phone
- Get on-site quote before removal
- Service typically arrives within 24-48 hours
- They load, haul, and dispose of tires properly
Pros:
- Ultimate convenience no heavy lifting
- Handles large quantities easily
- Takes tires from anywhere on your property
- Typically recycles or repurposes items when possible
Cons:
- Most expensive option
- Pricing based on volume, not per tire
- May have minimum service fees
Typical costs: $75-$200 for 4-8 standard tires, $150-$400 for 10-20 tires.
4. Use Licensed Scrap Tire Transporters
Best for: Businesses or individuals with 20+ tires
Scrap tire transporters are licensed businesses that collect and haul large quantities of tires to processing facilities.
How it works:
- Find licensed transporters through your state environmental agency
- Request quote based on quantity
- Schedule pickup (usually requires minimum quantity)
- Transporter hauls to approved facility
Pros:
- Handles very large quantities
- Regulated by state agencies
- Often less expensive per tire for bulk removal
Cons:
- Usually requires significant quantities (20-50+ tires)
- Must verify licensing to ensure legal disposal
- Availability varies by region
Note: Some states require transporters to be licensed to haul more than 10 tires at once. Using unlicensed haulers can result in fines.
5. Attend Municipal Tire Collection Events
Best for: Free disposal in small quantities
Many cities and counties host periodic collection events where residents can drop off tires and other hard-to-dispose items at no cost.
How it works:
- Check with your local solid waste department or city website
- Events typically held 1-4 times per year
- Bring tires during designated hours
- Usually free, but may have quantity limits (often 4-10 tires per household)
Pros:
- Completely free
- Convenient community locations
- Ensures proper disposal
- Often accepts other difficult items (electronics, paint, etc.)
Cons:
- Limited scheduling (may be only once or twice yearly)
- Quantity restrictions
- May have long wait times during peak hours
- Not available in all areas
Where to find events: Contact your city’s Department of Public Works, solid waste division, or check your municipality’s website under environmental services or recycling programs.
6. Take to Local Waste Management Facilities
Best for: When recycling centers aren’t available locally
Some municipal waste management facilities and transfer stations accept tires for a fee.
How it works:
- Call your local facility to confirm tire acceptance
- Bring valid ID and proof of residence
- Pay fee at gate (typically $2-$5 per tire)
- Tires are separated and sent to recyclers
Pros:
- Convenient for existing waste facility users
- Regulated disposal
- Often accepts other hard-to-dispose items
Cons:
- Not all facilities accept tires
- May only serve county residents
- Fees apply
- Operating hours may be limited
7. Contact Auto Repair Shops
Best for: Small quantities (1-4 tires)
Local mechanics and auto repair shops often accept tires for disposal as a customer service or for a small fee.
How it works:
- Call shops in your area
- Ask about tire disposal service and fees
- Drop off during business hours
- Shop arranges disposal through their tire vendors
Pros:
- Widely available
- Convenient if you’re already a customer
- Usually affordable ($3-$10 per tire)
Cons:
- Not all shops offer this service
- May prioritize customer tires
- Fees vary significantly
Best approach: Build relationships with local shops they’re more likely to accept tires from regular customers.
8. Donate Through Charitable Programs
Best for: Usable tires or those seeking tax deductions
Organizations like Wheels for Wishes accept tire donations and recycle them while supporting charitable causes.
How it works:
- Contact charity (some offer free pickup)
- Arrange donation pickup or drop-off
- Receive tax receipt for donation
- Charity recycles tires and uses proceeds for their mission
Pros:
- Free disposal
- Supports charitable causes
- May offer pickup service
- Tax-deductible donation
Cons:
- Limited availability geographically
- May only accept certain tire types
- Pickup not always available
- Processing takes longer
Organizations to try:
- Wheels for Wishes (supports Make-A-Wish)
- Local Habitat for Humanity chapters (some accept for construction projects)
- Art programs (for creative reuse projects)
9. Sell to Individuals or Businesses
Best for: Tires in good condition or unique sizes
If your tires still have significant tread life, you might be able to sell them rather than pay for disposal.
Where to sell:
- Facebook Marketplace
- Craigslist
- OfferUp
- Local tire shops (may buy for resale)
- Retreading companies (for commercial tires)
Pros:
- You get paid instead of paying
- Extends tire life and reduces waste
- Quick sale for desirable tires
Cons:
- Only works for usable tires
- Requires effort to list and sell
- Meeting buyers can be time-consuming
Pricing: Used tires in good condition typically sell for $25-$75 each, depending on brand, size, and remaining tread.
10. Explore Commercial/Industrial Recycling Options
Best for: Businesses with ongoing tire disposal needs
Commercial operations can establish accounts with tire recycling companies for regular pickup service.
How it works:
- Partner with licensed tire recycler
- Schedule regular pickups (weekly, monthly, quarterly)
- Pay per-tire fees or flat monthly rates
- Receive disposal documentation for compliance
Pros:
- Streamlined waste management
- Documentation for regulatory compliance
- Volume discounts available
- Scheduled service eliminates storage issues
Cons:
- Requires business account
- Minimum quantities or fees may apply
- Contract obligations
Cost Breakdown & Comparison
Understanding disposal costs helps you choose the most economical option for your situation.
Disposal Method Cost Comparison
| Disposal Method | Cost Per Tire | Additional Fees | Best For |
| Tire Retailer (with purchase) | $2-$5 | Usually none | Buying new tires |
| Tire Retailer (no purchase) | $5-$10 | May refuse service | Small quantities |
| Recycling Center Drop-off | $1-$5 | None | Self-transport capability |
| Waste Management Facility | $2-$5 | Possible gate fees | County residents |
| Municipal Collection Event | FREE | Quantity limits | Patient planners |
| Auto Repair Shop | $3-$10 | Varies by shop | Existing customers |
| Junk Removal Service | $15-$25/tire* | $75+ minimum | Large quantities or convenience |
| Scrap Tire Transporter | $5-$15 | Minimum quantity | 20+ tires |
| Charitable Donation | FREE | None | Tax deduction seekers |
Price based on volume; cost per tire decreases with quantity
Factors Affecting Tire Disposal Costs
Tire Size:
- Passenger car tires: $2-$5
- SUV/Light truck tires: $3-$7
- Full-size truck tires: $8-$15
- Commercial/Semi-truck tires: $15-$30
- Tractor/Heavy equipment: $25-$100+
Tire Condition:
- Tires off rims: Standard pricing
- Tires on rims: May cost $5-$10 extra per tire
- Mud-covered or contaminated: Additional cleaning fees
Location: Rural areas may have limited options and higher costs due to longer transport distances to processing facilities.
Quantity: Bulk disposal often reduces per-tire costs 20 tires might cost $3 each vs. $5 each for 4 tires.
Cost-Saving Tips
- Buy tires where disposal is included: Many retailers don’t charge separately when you purchase new tires.
- Wait for free collection events: Plan ahead and store tires until your city’s annual collection day.
- Combine disposal with neighbors: Split the cost of junk removal service when you and neighbors all have tires to dispose of.
- Remove from rims yourself: Save $5-$10 per tire by removing rims before disposal (requires tire iron and muscle).
- Check for rebates: Some states offer small rebates for proper tire recycling during special campaigns.
Conclusion
Getting rid of old tires responsibly protects more than just your garage space it protects the environment and your wallet from fines. In 2025, legal bans and local programs are designed to make it easier for you to recycle or dispose of tires the right way.
Whether you choose to take them to a recycling facility, return them to the store, or attend a community event, there is almost always a safe and lawful way to deal with old tires. Don’t let them sit and become tomorrow’s neighbors’ problem tackle them today.
FAQs
What to do with old tires if they’re still usable?
If they still have good tread, try selling or donating them. Some people use them as spare tires or repurpose them for DIY projects.
Where to dispose of tires without paying a fee?
Look for municipal collection events or recycling days in your area. Many communities offer free drop-offs.
Can you throw away tires in regular trash?
No. Most garbage services won’t accept tires, and doing so can lead to service refusal or fines.
Where can you get rid of tires if you don’t drive them?
Tire recycling centers, auto shops, and community events are all valid options. Calling ahead helps confirm policies.
Are there penalties for illegal dumping of tires?
Yes. Illegal dumping is unlawful in many places and may result in fines or cleanup liability.
