Why Tires Can’t Go in the Trash
All 50 states ban tires from landfills. The reasons: whole tires trap methane gas and can cause landfill fires that burn underground for years. They also create hollow spaces that trap water and breed mosquitoes at massive scale. Tire dumps are environmental hazards — which is why the recycling infrastructure for tires is well developed and usually affordable.
Disposal Options by Quantity
| Option | Cost | Max Quantity | Notes |
| Tire shop (no purchase) | $1–$5/tire | Any | Call ahead; most accept walk-ins |
| Tire shop (with new tire purchase) | Included or $2–$5/tire | Match purchase | Standard at Discount Tire, NTB, Firestone, etc. |
| Walmart Auto Center | $2–$3/tire (at install) | With purchase | Not accepted without tire purchase |
| Municipal tire event | Free | 4–8 tires | 1–2x/year; check county website |
| Permanent county drop-off | Free or small fee | 4–8 tires | Not available in all counties |
| Tire recycler (bulk) | Free or paid pickup | 20+ | Best for large quantities |
Finding Your Local Municipal Program
Search: "[your county] tire disposal" or "[your city] tire collection event." Most county solid waste authorities publish upcoming event dates on their website. Some counties have permanent drop-off stations at transfer facilities — call to confirm hours and limits.
Large Quantities (20+ Tires)
If you’re cleaning out a property, farm, or commercial site with a large number of tires:
- Contact tire recyclers directly — they often pick up large quantities for free (tires have recycled material value)
- Search “tire recycling [your state]” for state programs or commercial recyclers
- Some junk removal companies accept tires with a per-tire surcharge ($10–$20 each); confirm before booking
- Your county solid waste authority may have commercial-quantity options beyond residential limits
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I throw old tires in the trash?
No. Tires are banned from landfills in all 50 states. They create fire hazards, trap methane gas, and harbor mosquito breeding. You must use a legitimate disposal option: tire shop, retailer, municipal collection, or tire recycler.
Where can I drop off old tires for free?
Many municipalities hold free tire collection events 1–2 times per year. Some counties have permanent tire drop-off locations. Check your city or county’s public works or solid waste department website. Limits typically apply (4–8 tires per household).
Will a tire shop take my old tires?
Yes — tire shops dispose of tires as a standard service. When you buy new tires, shops typically charge a $2–$5 per-tire disposal fee included in the install price. Many shops will also accept used tires you bring in (no purchase required) for $1–$5 per tire.
Does Walmart or Costco take old tires?
Walmart Auto Care Centers charge a $2–$3 tire disposal fee per tire when installing new tires and will take your old ones. Costco Tire Centers charge a similar fee at installation. Neither typically accepts tires without a purchase.
How do I dispose of a large number of tires?
For more than 8–10 tires, contact a tire recycling company directly. Many will pick up large quantities (20+) for free or a small fee because tires have recycled material value (crumb rubber, fuel). Search "tire recycler near me" or contact your county solid waste authority for commercial quantity guidance.
Can old tires be recycled?
Yes. Tires are ground into crumb rubber used in playgrounds, athletic tracks, and asphalt. They can also be shredded for tire-derived fuel (TDF) used in cement kilns and industrial boilers. Old tires are 100% recyclable through proper channels.