⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific compliance questions, consult the Georgia EPD directly or a licensed environmental attorney.
Georgia has strict regulations governing how scrap tires are collected, stored, transported, and processed. If your business generates, transports, or processes waste tires in Georgia, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GA EPD) has rules that apply to you. Here's what you need to know.
The Governing Law: Georgia Scrap Tire Management Act
Georgia's scrap tire program is governed by the Georgia Scrap Tire Management Act (O.C.G.A. § 12-8-40 et seq.) and administered by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GA EPD). This law covers everyone involved in the scrap tire chain — generators, haulers, processors, and end users.
The law requires that all scrap tires be managed by permitted haulers and directed to permitted facilities. Illegal dumping, burning, and improper storage are all violations with serious penalties.
Who Needs a Permit in Georgia?
Scrap Tire Haulers
Any person or company that transports scrap tires in Georgia for compensation must hold a valid GA EPD Scrap Tire Carrier permit. This applies to tire recyclers, cleanup contractors, and any business hauling tires off-site.
Scrap Tire Processors
Facilities that shred, granulate, or otherwise process scrap tires must hold a GA EPD Scrap Tire Processor permit. This includes TDF producers, crumb rubber manufacturers, and on-site shredding operations.
Scrap Tire Sorters
Facilities that sort, store, or consolidate scrap tires for shipment to processors may require a sorter permit depending on volume and operations.
Key Requirements for Generators (Businesses)
Use a Permitted Hauler
All scrap tires must be transported by a GA EPD permitted scrap tire carrier. If you use an unpermitted hauler and those tires end up illegally dumped, your business can still face liability.
Manifest Documentation
Every tire pickup must be accompanied by a manifest documenting the generator, hauler, tire count, and destination. Retain copies for at least 3 years.
Storage Limits
Businesses cannot accumulate scrap tires indefinitely. Large stockpiles require a permit and must meet fire safety, mosquito prevention, and access requirements.
No Burning
Burning scrap tires in Georgia is illegal without an air quality permit — and such permits are virtually never granted for tire burning. Violations carry significant penalties.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Georgia takes scrap tire violations seriously. Penalties can include:
- ⚠ Civil penalties up to $25,000 per day for violations
- ⚠ Criminal charges for willful violations
- ⚠ Mandatory cleanup costs charged to the responsible party
- ⚠ Loss of business licenses in some cases
- ⚠ Public record of violations — reputational damage
Eco Tire Solutions in Georgia
Eco Tire Solutions LLC now serves the Hartwell, Georgia area and Northeast Georgia with compliant waste tire pickup and disposal. We hold SC DHEC Waste Tire Hauler Permit #WTH000541 and operate in compliance with applicable state regulations in all service areas.
Every pickup in Georgia includes a signed manifest documenting the generator, hauler, tire count, and destination. Your business is always protected.
Compliance Checklist for Georgia Businesses
Need Compliant Tire Pickup in Georgia?
Eco Tire Solutions now serves the Hartwell, GA area and Northeast Georgia. Call or schedule online.