Every year, millions of old tires need to be disposed of across the United States. In South Carolina alone, the problem is significant — and illegal dumping makes it worse. Whether you have 4 tires from a tire change or 400 from a business, here's what you need to know about your options.
⚠️ Don't Dump Illegally
Illegal tire dumping in South Carolina carries civil penalties up to $10,000 per day and potential criminal charges. It also creates health hazards, mosquito breeding grounds, and fire risks. There are better options.
Option 1: Schedule a Pickup with a Registered Hauler
The easiest option for most people — especially businesses — is to schedule a pickup with a SC DHEC registered waste tire hauler. They come to you, load the tires, provide documentation, and handle everything from there.
Eco Tire Solutions LLC
SC DHEC Registered — Permit #WTH000541. We pick up tires from tire shops, businesses, fleets, and property owners across South Carolina.
Schedule a pickup →Option 2: Drop Off at a Tire Retailer
Many tire retailers and auto shops accept old tires for a small fee — typically $1–$4 per tire. This is a convenient option if you're already having new tires installed. The shop is responsible for proper disposal.
Important: Make sure the shop uses a registered hauler for their tire disposal. If they dump illegally, you could still face questions about where your tires ended up.
Option 3: Municipal Collection Events
Many South Carolina counties hold periodic tire collection events where residents can drop off waste tires for free or at reduced cost. Check with your county's solid waste department for upcoming events in:
Option 4: Repurpose or Upcycle
Old tires can be repurposed for a variety of creative uses — though this is better suited for individuals with a few tires than businesses with large volumes:
Option 5: Donate to a Recycler
Some tire recyclers will accept tires for free or at reduced cost if you deliver them directly to their facility. The tires are then processed into tire-derived fuel (TDF), crumb rubber, rubber mulch, or other products — giving them a second life instead of ending up in a landfill.
What NOT to Do With Old Tires
- 🚫 Don't dump tires on roadsides, in woods, or on vacant lots
- 🚫 Don't burn tires — it's illegal and releases toxic chemicals
- 🚫 Don't put tires in your regular trash or recycling bin
- 🚫 Don't bury tires — they resurface over time and create hazards
- 🚫 Don't use an unregistered hauler — you could still be liable
For Businesses: The Right Way to Handle Tire Disposal
If you're a tire shop, auto dealer, fleet operator, or any business that generates waste tires regularly, you need a reliable, compliant disposal partner. Here's what proper business tire disposal looks like:
Use a DHEC-registered hauler
Verify their permit number before they pick up your tires.
Get a manifest every time
This protects your business from liability and satisfies DHEC requirements.
Schedule regular pickups
Don't let tires accumulate beyond the 500-tire storage limit.
Keep records
Retain manifests for at least 3 years in case of an inspection.
Ready to Dispose of Your Old Tires the Right Way?
Eco Tire Solutions picks up waste tires across South Carolina — fast, legal, and fully documented.