Short answer
Usually not. Most dumpster companies don't accept tires, because landfills restrict them and states regulate scrap tires.
Why tires are different
Almost every state has its own scrap tire law and program, covering how tires are collected, stored and processed (US EPA: state scrap tire programs). Many states charge a fee on new tire sales to fund it. A passenger or light-truck tire weighs about 22.5 lb, according to EPA's conversion factors (US EPA: volume-to-weight conversion factors (2016)).
Where to take them
- When you buy new tires. Shops usually take the old ones, often for a small per-tire disposal fee.
- Your city or county drop-off. Many transfer stations and recycling centers take a limited number of tires from residents, sometimes for a fee.
- Collection events. Counties often run free tire amnesty days: check your county's solid waste page.
- Registered scrap tire haulers for large quantities.
If a few tires are mixed into a cleanout, tell the dumpster company: some will take them for a per-tire fee rather than refusing the whole load.
Local drop-off sites
Each of our city guides lists the official household hazardous waste and drop-off option: New YorkLos AngelesChicagoHoustonPhiladelphiaSan AntonioSan DiegoAustinSeattleSan FranciscoDenverWashingtonBostonMinneapolisPortlandNashvillePittsburghAtlantaColumbusIndianapolisCharlotteTampaKansas CitySt. LouisDetroitMilwaukeeSacramentoCincinnatiChattanooga.
Questions
Why won't dumpster companies take tires?
Whole tires are restricted at many landfills and regulated under state scrap tire programs (US EPA: state scrap tire programs), so haulers usually ban them or charge per tire.
Where can I get rid of tires for free?
Look for county tire amnesty or collection days and municipal drop-offs; some are free for residents within a limit.