How to Recycle and Dispose of Old Tires Legally

Why dispose of tires properly?

Scrap tires are not ordinary waste. They cannot go in your household trash in most jurisdictions. They trap air and water, which can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and they can catch fire and burn for a long time. Rubber also breaks down slowly and can release chemicals into soil and water. Because of these hazards, many states regulate how tires are collected and recycled.

Proper disposal also keeps the material in a useful loop. The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association, the industry trade group, emphasizes environmental stewardship as one of its pillars, and many tire manufacturers support recycling programs. By using an authorized drop-off or pickup service, you help ensure your tires are recycled into rubber mulch, playground surfaces, or other products instead of left to pollute. Choosing eco-friendly tires for your next set can also reduce long-term waste; see our guide on eco-friendly tires.

Where to drop off old tires

The most common way to get rid of old tires is to take them to a collection point. Many municipalities run drop-off events or have permanent household hazardous waste facilities that accept tires, sometimes with a limit on the number per household. Often you must remove the rims before dropping them off, and the tires must be clean and dry.

Tire retailers that sell new tires frequently accept used tires when you purchase a set. This is convenient if you are replacing your old tires anyway. Some recycling centers specialize in scrap tires and will take them for a small fee. To find out what is available in your area, contact your city or county public works department or check the website of your state environmental agency. The Tire Industry Association, which represents all segments of the tire industry, provides resources and directories for certified dealers, so you can look for a dealer that accepts scrap tires. If you need to store tires briefly before drop-off, follow the tips in our tire storage guide.

Curbside pickup and scheduled collection

If you cannot transport tires yourself, some waste management companies offer curbside pickup as part of their bulk collection service. Usually there is a limit on the number of tires you can leave out, and you may need to schedule ahead. Each tire must be free of rims and water, because wet tires are heavy and difficult to handle.

For larger quantities, such as from a fleet, a commercial scrap tire hauler can be contracted. These services are licensed to transport used tires to recycling or disposal facilities. If you own a business that generates many scrap tires, you should use a licensed hauler to stay compliant with local and federal regulations.

Rules and restrictions you need to know

Scrap tire regulations vary by state and even by city. Common rules include a maximum number of tires accepted per visit, a limit on tire size (often no truck or tractor tires), and a requirement that tires be off the rim. Some facilities also require that tires are not split or cut, because that makes them harder to recycle.

You also need to check the tire's condition. If a tire has been retreaded, it may still be acceptable, but retreading is a specific process that must meet federal standards under 49 CFR 571.117. That standard outlines requirements for retreaded passenger car tires, including labeling and certification. A tire that is too worn or damaged cannot be retreaded and should be recycled instead. Before deciding to repair or dispose, review the difference between repair and replacement.

Retreading: a legal way to extend tire life

Before you send a tire to a recycler, consider whether it can be retreaded. Retreading replaces the worn tread with a new one, giving the tire another life. This is a standard practice for commercial truck tires and also exists for passenger tires, though less common. Under federal rules, retreaded tires must comply with the same performance criteria as new tires, so they are safe when done correctly.

Not every tire qualifies for retreading. The casing must be free of damage, and the tire must have enough original tread depth to be prepared. If the tire is close to the wear indicators, it may not have enough rubber for a safe retread. You can check the DOT date code to see if the tire is too old; retreaders often avoid casings older than a certain age. Learn more about reading the DOT date code and about new tire tread depth to assess your tire's condition.

Why the DOT code matters when disposing

Every tire sold in the United States has a Department of Transportation (DOT) code that identifies the manufacturer, plant, and date of production. Part 574 of the Code of Federal Regulations requires this marking on new tires. The last four digits of the DOT code indicate the week and year of manufacture, for example, 1225 means the 12th week of 2025. Knowing the age helps you decide if a tire is even worth disposing of or if it can be sold or donated.

Tires that are too old, even if they have tread left, are often considered unsafe due to dry rot. If you have such a tire, it cannot be retreaded and should be recycled. You can use the DOT code to check before making any decision. For more on how age affects tire safety, see our article on tire age and dry rot.

What you should never do with old tires

Never dump tires in a landfill, on public land, or in a body of water. In most places, this is illegal and can result in fines. Burning tires is also prohibited because it releases toxic fumes and creates oil residue that contaminates soil. Do not mix tires with regular curbside recycling; they are not accepted in typical single-stream programs.

If you cannot find a drop-off or pickup option, store the tires temporarily in a covered area to keep them dry and protected from mosquitoes. Do not stack them outside where they collect water. The best approach is to plan ahead and use the services we described. For safe temporary storage, follow our tire storage tips.

What to pick for your next set of tires

Questions

Can I put old tires in my regular trash?

No. Most municipalities prohibit tires in regular trash because they are not biodegradable, can trap water, and pose fire hazards. You must use an authorized drop-off or pickup service.

Is there a fee to dispose of tires?

Many drop-off locations charge a small fee per tire, while some tire retailers accept them for free when you purchase new tires. Check with your local program for exact policies.

Can I recycle tires with rims still attached?

Some facilities accept tires with rims, but many require that you remove them first. It is best to remove rims to make handling easier and to avoid extra charges.

How do I know if my tires can be retreaded?

The casing must be free of damage and the tire must have enough tread depth. A qualified retreader can inspect it and determine if it qualifies. You also need to check the DOT date code for age.

What is the DOT code and why is it important?

The DOT code is a series of letters and numbers molded into the sidewall that identifies the manufacturer, plant, and production date. It helps you determine tire age, which is critical for deciding between retreading, disposal, or continued use.