How to dispose of tires?

Tires are banned from the trash and from landfills in California, and dumping them is illegal. Recycle them through a tire retailer or a waste-tire recycling site — usually for a small per-tire fee.

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When you buy new tires

The easiest route: when a shop installs new tires, they take your old ones for a small state-regulated recycling fee (often about $2–5 each). Just ask them to keep the old tires.

Dropping them off

Tire retailers and waste-tire recyclers accept loose tires for a small fee. California's CalRecycle waste-tire program and many county HHW/roundup events also take them — search 'tire recycling near me.'

Where they end up

Recycled tires become crumb rubber for playgrounds, athletic tracks, and road material — a good reason to keep them out of the landfill.

Tires — quick FAQ

What is the best way to dispose of tires?

Have the shop take your old tires when you buy new ones, or drop them at a tire retailer or recycling center for a small per-tire fee.

Is it illegal to throw away old tires?

Yes — tires are banned from the trash and landfills in California, and illegal dumping carries fines. They must be recycled.

Will a store dispose of old tires?

Most tire shops accept old tires for a small recycling fee, and take them for free when they're installing your new ones.

How much does it cost to recycle a tire?

Usually about $2–5 per tire — a small state recycling fee that covers proper processing.

People also ask

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