Have you ever wondered where to get rid of old tires near me? There are actually a few different options for disposing of old tires that are eco-friendly and a few that aren’t. You may even be able to sell them and get a few bucks. There is actually a difference between disposal and recycling and it is an important distinction to make for the environment. In this article, I will discuss how to get rid of old tires, the environmental impacts of improper disposal, and share how the used tire disposal near me works.
Map of Used Tire Disposal Near Me
For “used tire disposal near me” or “where to take old tires near me”, see below for locations…
Alternatively, you can search for “tire recycling near me” which will expand the list and present more environmental friendly solutions for the reuse of old tire disposal.
Who Does Used Tire Disposal Near Me?
The short answer is to contact recycling centers, tire shops, and used tire disposal companies. Likely your local landfill or dump likely doesn’t dispose of used tires because of the danger to the local ecosystem. The long answer is that you shouldn’t be putting tires in a dump or a landfill anyway and you may have much better green options or possibly options to sell them available to you.
Tire disposal simply implies getting rid of your tires. In most states, you can’t put tires in dumps or landfills and it’s why your local waste management won’t pick them up curbside. For most solutions, there will be a disposal fee involved which varies by state.
I would encourage you to consider environmentally friendly alternatives like a recycling center or a green disposal company. There still may be a disposal fee, but you are acting in a more environmentally friendly way.
There are other organizations that do green disposal and offer a designated drop off area. Some still charge a fee which is the equivalent of going to non-environmentally conscious options like the landfill.
If you are looking for how to get rid of old tires near me and have a mass quantity some US states require a special license to haul a large number of tires. Dropping off a few tires, like the set of four you just replaced is fine though.
Free Environment Friendly Tire Disposal Near Me
Since you can’t simply leave old tires out with your trash, because they won’t take them, there are organizations who will pick them up. There are companies like Tires 2 Green Recycling that operate across the US who manage the transportation of nearly 10 percent of total scrap tires.
Even better they do it for free and they turn tires into derived fuel, crumb rubber, and asphalt filler. So instead of finding where to get rid of old tires near me, they will come to you and pick them up.
Used Tire Disposal vs Used Tire Recycling?
Disposal and recycling simply has two different meanings. Disposal is the action or process of throwing away or getting rid of something. Recycling is to convert (waste) into reusable material.
For many years old tires have been a huge problem because they contain chemicals that don’t biodegrade easily, they rip landfill liners, and take up a lot of space in dumps and landfills. The nature of a tire itself is that it is built to be durable and not succumb to weathering. That is why it takes a tire 50 to 80 years to biodegrade according to this article here. So when you dispose of tires, you are not recycling them which is harmful to the earth.
Recycling on the other hand turns the tires into reusable goods. Some tires that are still safe can be sold as used or retreaded. Tires that are no longer driveable can be recycled into derived fuel, crumb rubber, asphalt filler, gym mats, barn mats, ballistic targets and more. You can read more about what becomes of recycled tires here.
The Environmental Impact of Recycling Tires
280 Million tires goes to scrap per year according to the US Department of Transportation. If all these millions of these used tires entered into the dumps or landfills the consequences on the environment would be disastrous. The good news is that almost 86% of all tires are actually recycled and 6% are sent to landfills. The other 8% are exported.
When a tire is left in a dump or landfill, it begins a dangerous process called “leaching” into the ground. This is the process of the heavy metals and carcinogenic chemicals breaking down and poisoning the soil which causes genetic mutations in the local ecosystem. The other problem with tires is they take up huge amounts of space in landfills.
Considering that 80% of a tire is unused space because the inside is a hole with a hollow shell, it’s a waste of landfill space. Rodents also make homes inside and they are a breeding ground for disease-carrying insects like mosquitoes.
The ideal use for old tires though is recycling them into fuel called Tire Derived Fuel (TDF). Since a tire is made of very flammable materials it makes fuel the best candidate for recycling them. Almost 62% of all scrap tires are turned into derived fuel now. These fuels are used in industrial boilers, cement kilns, and paper mills.
What Products are Made from Recycled Tires?
When an old tire is disposed of if it ends up in a recycling stream, it can be reused. Old tires can be made into useful products. Here are a few examples of how recycled tires are used for practical applications:
- Gravel substitute: old tires can be shredded and used sublayers for streets, aggregate on drainage ditches, and for embankments on highways.
- Crumb Rubber: This where shredded rubber becomes products like rubber asphalt, playground matting, car and truck mud flaps, and ballistic targets for shooting ranges.
- Landfill Liner Insulation: Old tire rubber makes good thermal insulation between primary and secondary landfill liners. Sometimes it is also used as a landfill cover.
- Wastewater Treatment Filters: Tires can be shredded into a lot of sizes which makes them a good underground drainage solution in wetlands. Since the material is more porous and customizable than rocks, it works more efficiently.
- Mulch: Old tires can be used as mulch for gardens. It can be better than mulch because it doesn’t rot, attract termites, blow away in the wind, and it look better for longer.
Online Platforms for Tire Disposal
The internet has become a powerful tool for individuals looking to dispose of used tires responsibly. There are several online platforms and avenues that can be utilized for this purpose. Here are some of the notable ones:
- Selling Used Tires on Platforms like Craigslist
One of the easiest ways to recycle tires is by selling them on online marketplaces like Craigslist. This platform allows individuals to list their used tires for sale at a price they deem fit. It’s a straightforward process:
- Take clear photos of the tires.
- Create a listing on Craigslist, mentioning the condition, size, and any other relevant details of the tires.
- Interact with potential customers who show interest, and finalize the sale.
This way, the tires find a new home, especially if they still have some life left in them, and don’t end up as solid waste in landfills.
- Donating to Local Organizations or Schools
Donating used tires is another excellent way to ensure they are reused and do not contribute to environmental pollution. Local organizations, schools, or community centers often have projects that require materials like used tires. For instance, they can be used to create a tire swing in a playground, or as planters in a community garden.
- Contact local organizations or schools to inquire if they need used tires.
- Arrange a drop-off or pick-up time.
- Feel good knowing your tires will be put to good use!
- Online Directories for Finding Tire Recycling Centers
Online directories are a valuable resource for individuals looking to recycle their used tires. These directories provide a list of recycling centers, their contact information, and sometimes reviews from other customers.
- Search for tire recycling centers near you using keywords like “recycle tires near me” or “tire disposal centers.”
- Browse through the list, checking the services offered by each center.
- Contact the centers to inquire about the actual costs involved and the process of tire recycling.
Some directories even provide additional information on the types of materials accepted by the recycling centers, whether it’s just tires from cars, or if they also accept tires from trucks.
This way, individuals can find the most suitable recycling center for their needs, ensuring that the tires are disposed of responsibly and do not get burned or dumped illegally.
Why Are There Disposal Fees for Old Tires?
It seems like a catch 22. They want you to properly dispose of your tires, but some places charge a “disposal fee” for doing it.
48 States of regulations specifically called out related to the disposal of old tires. The most common among them is a disposal fee. There are state laws that specify how much can be charged for used tires to be recycled. It is enforced because almost all of the options for recycling tires are state funded programs. Each state charges a different disposal fee for used tires. You can consult this chart here, for your expected disposal charges.
In my state, Virginia, The tire recycling fee is imposed at a rate of $1.00. The way it works is that when a company sells you a new tire they have to pay a $1 recycling fee. When you bring a tire to them for disposal they charge you the fee. Now to be honest the used tire disposal near me charges about $5 per tire.
How Does the Tire Disposal Near Me, Use the Fee?
At a state run facility like a landfill they will charge a disposal fee and use those funds to aid the recycling program. The money is put towards reducing illegal tire dumping and the cleanup off such hazards.
When you go to a shop and get new tires and they charge a disposal fee for your old ones, it’s used to pay for the company that picks up the old tires. Your local shop has to pay a service to come by and pick them up to transport them to a proper disposal facility.
Benefits of Tire Recycling
Tire recycling is a practice that is gaining traction around the globe due to its numerous benefits. When you recycle tires, you contribute to solving several environmental, economic, and safety challenges. Here’s a detailed look into the advantages of tire recycling:
Environmental Benefits:
- Reduction in Landfill Waste:
- Every year, millions of tires reach the end of their life, but only a fraction gets recycled. The rest end up in landfills, contributing to the growing problem of waste tire disposal. Tire recycling helps in reducing the number of tires that end up in landfills, thus conserving the much-needed space and reducing environmental pollution.
- Decreased Carbon Footprint:
- Tires that are improperly disposed of can become a significant source of pollution. When tires are burned, they release harmful emissions into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. On the other hand, recycling tires can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions, thus reducing the carbon footprint.
Economic Benefits:
- Job Creation:
- Establishing and running a tire recycling facility requires manpower, which in turn creates job opportunities. From collection and transportation to processing the tires, several jobs are created, which boosts the local economy.
- Potential for New Products and Markets:
- Recycled tire materials can be used in a variety of applications. For instance, the rubber from recycled tires can be used in the construction of running tracks, playgrounds, and even asphalt for roadways. This opens up new markets and creates a demand for recycled tire products, stimulating economic growth.
Safety Benefits:
- Reduction in Mosquito Breeding Grounds:
- Discarded tires often collect water, providing an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes. By recycling tires, we eliminate such breeding grounds, reducing the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.
- Prevention of Fire Hazards:
- Stockpiled tires pose a significant fire hazard. Fires in tire stockpiles are hard to extinguish and can burn for weeks, releasing toxic fumes. Tire recycling helps in reducing such fire hazards, ensuring the safety of the community.
Tire recycling is not just about disposing of old tires responsibly; it’s about creating a sustainable cycle that benefits the environment, the economy, and the society at large. The next time you replace your new tires, consider taking the old ones to a recycling facility instead of letting them end up in a garage or a landfill. Through collective efforts in tire recycling, we can make significant strides towards a greener and safer planet.
Dangers Associated with Improper Tire Disposal
Improper disposal of waste tires can lead to several environmental and health hazards. One of the primary concerns is that discarded tires provide ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. The stagnant water collected inside the tires creates a perfect environment for mosquito larvae to thrive. Mosquitoes are known carriers of diseases like dengue and malaria, which can have severe health implications for communities.
Besides being a haven for mosquitoes, unwanted tires can also pose significant fire hazards. When tires catch fire, they can burn for extended periods, releasing toxic chemicals into the air, soil, and water. The smoke from burning tires contains harmful compounds that can pose serious health risks to humans and animals alike. Moreover, extinguishing tire fires can be exceptionally challenging due to the tire derived fuel that feeds the flames, making them a nightmare for local fire departments.
Apart from mosquitoes and fire hazards, discarded tires can also become habitats for various vermin such as rats, snakes, and other potentially dangerous creatures. These vermin can carry diseases or pose direct physical threats to humans and pets.
Furthermore, when tires are improperly disposed of in the environment, they become an eyesore and may contribute to the degradation of the natural landscape. They can be found littering the city, highway sides, forests, rivers, and even deserts, which not only affects the aesthetics but also poses dangers to the ecosystem.
The accumulation of waste tires in a community can also negatively impact property values and can be a deterrent for potential customers and investors in the area. The sight of piled up tires can be quite unsightly and gives off an impression of negligence and disregard for environmental sustainability.
In light of these dangers, it’s imperative to seek proper tire disposal service to mitigate the risks associated with improper tire disposal. Through responsible disposal and recycling facilities, we can significantly reduce the dangers posed by discarded tires and contribute to creating a safer and cleaner environment.
Legal Framework Surrounding Tire Disposal
The legal framework surrounding tire disposal is structured to ensure environmental sustainability and public health. On a federal level, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides guidelines on how waste tires should be managed and disposed of. These guidelines are aimed at reducing the environmental impact of tire disposal and promoting recycling efforts.
On a state level, different states have their own set of regulations and permits regarding tire disposal. For instance, in California, the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) oversees the management of waste tires and ensures compliance with the state’s tire recycling programs. The regulations may cover aspects such as the proper hauling of tires, the operation of tire recycling facilities, and the disposal of tires in landfills.
Non-compliance with federal or state regulations can result in hefty penalties. These penalties are designed to deter individuals and businesses from improper tire disposal and to encourage the use of tire recycling center services. The penalties can range from fines to revocation of business licenses, depending on the severity of the violation.
Moreover, some states have established recycle programs funded by fees collected from tire retailers. These programs aim to manage the tire collection and recycling process efficiently, ensuring that tires are either recycled or disposed of properly.
Additionally, there are market incentives for individuals and businesses to comply with tire disposal regulations. For instance, some recycling facilities offer a price for used tires, which can be converted into recycled rubber products such as rubber mulch, floor mats, and playground surfaces.
The legal framework surrounding tire disposal is a crucial aspect of ensuring that the environmental and health hazards associated with waste tires are adequately managed. By adhering to these regulations, individuals and businesses contribute to a safer and more sustainable environment.
Alternative Options to Used Tire Disposal Near Me
If you were looking for used tire disposal near me, and wondering can I sell me used tires….here are some options…
Retreading Shops May Take Your Tires
Retreading is the process of taking old worn tires and putting new tread on. This is typically only done for commercial vehicle tires and not passenger car tires.
A retreader may be interested if you have used commercial vehicle tires to dispose of. They may even pay you for them if the casings are still in good shape. To find a retread shop near you, click here.
SellMyTires.com
If your tires still have tread wear on them and are safe you can sell them on the site SellMyTires.com. This site allows people to post their tires and others in your local area to see your listings. In my experience, you can sell the right pair of tires for about $75 on average.
Selling your tires as a means of disposing of them is a win-win. Alternatively, you can try sites like Craigslist and eBay to sell your tires second hand.
Used Tire Shops That Purchase Used Tires
There are many used tire shops both locally and online that will purchase your used tires or your rims. You can find local buyers here. They will need to inspect your tires for safety because they in turn will be reselling the tire to the public. On average you can get up to $25 per tire if there is tread left on it and the quality is still good.
Used Tire Disposal Near Me – Conclusion
Keeping tires out of landfills and dumps is of the utmost importance. Recycling options are great, but you may run into a small disposal fee per tire. If your tire still have some life left in them, selling them second hand is the best way to dispose of them. That serves several purposes.
It puts money in your pocket, helps someone else save money, saves energy because less tires are produced, and keeps tires out of landfills. Even if you don’t care about recycling or what happens to the planet, you may face legal penalties for improper disposal of old tires.
The good news though is recycling them is now the easiest option for disposal and the best alternative for where to get rid of old tires. That’s what I have learned from the places that do used tire disposal near me.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Put Tires in a Dumpster?
No. Since tires are not accepted at landfills in most states, it is illegal to put tires in a dumpster. If caught you could get a fine and the amount is dependent on which state you are in. An option would be to shred the tires, which would be considered garbage.
Can You Bury Old Tires?
It is illegal in the US to bury old tires. If caught you could be fined and the amount is dependent on the state you are in. Alternatively, though you are allowed to shred tires, in which they are considered debris, and can now be disposed of in a landfill.
How Do You Melt Rubber Tires at Home?
To melt tires at home you need a liquid with a higher boiling point and density than rubber. It is common to use a thick and heavy oil. First, you need to shred the tire and then pour in your liquid. The liquid then needs to be heated between 750 and 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
How Much Does it Cost to Dump Tires?
The cost will vary depending on where you are disposing of the tire. Prices in the US range between $1 and $10 per tire. There are 35 states that allow you to shred tires and put them in. You will be charged based on the weight of the rubber you are disposing.
Are Tires Banned in Landfills?
There are 38 US states that ban whole tires from landfills. 35 US states will accept tires that are shredded. There are 11 US states that won’t take tires at all whole or shredded. 17 US states will allow processed tires to be dumped in a monofill.
What Happens When Old Tires Are Put in Landfills?
Tires do not biodegrade easily and due to their chemicals they release a lot of methane gas into the atmosphere. They also take up a lot of negative space and are breading grounds for rodents and mosquitos. This leads to mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile Virus and encephalitis, as well as other diseases.