Rhode Island Tire Disposal and Removal
Getting rid of old tires in Rhode Island requires following specific regulations - you can't simply throw them in the trash or place them in a standard dumpster rental. Whether you have a few old tires cluttering your garage or need to dispose of multiple tires from a vehicle project, understanding your options will save you time, money, and potential fines. This comprehensive guide covers everything Rhode Island residents need to know about proper tire disposal.
Can You Put Tires in a Dumpster Rental in Rhode Island?
No - tires are NOT accepted in standard dumpster rentals in Rhode Island. This is a critical rule that applies to all dumpster rental companies, including both 15-yard and 20-yard dumpsters.
Why Tires Are Prohibited:
- Rhode Island law bans tires from landfills
- Separate disposal and recycling required
- Special processing facilities handle tires
- Environmental regulations strictly enforced
- Tire fees may apply and vary by size (separate from dumpster rental)
What This Means for Your Project:
- Remove tires BEFORE renting a dumpster
- Dispose of tires through approved channels
- Cannot mix tires with renovation debris
- Violating this can result in additional fees
- Plan tire disposal separately from other projects
Rhode Island Tire Disposal Laws and Regulations
Understanding state regulations helps you stay compliant:
Rhode Island General Laws:
- Tires banned from landfills statewide
- Illegal to dispose of tires in regular trash
- Cannot be left at curbside pickup
- Improper disposal carries fines up to $25,000
- All residents must use approved disposal methods
Why Rhode Island Bans Tire Landfilling:
- Environmental contamination concerns
- Fire hazards (tire fires extremely dangerous)
- Breeding grounds for mosquitoes
- Take up valuable landfill space
- Difficult to compact and decompose
- Toxic chemicals leach into soil/water
Enforcement:
- Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) oversees
- Transfer stations inspect loads
- Fines for illegal dumping
- Property owners responsible for proper disposal
Where to Dispose of Tires in Rhode Island
Multiple approved options exist throughout the Ocean State:
Municipal Transfer Stations and Recycling Centers
Most Rhode Island cities and towns accept tires for a fee:
Providence Area:
- Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation (RIRRC) facilities
- Accepts tires from residents
- Fees vary by tire size and type
- Call ahead: (401) 942-1430
- Proof of residency required
Warwick:
- Recycling Center, Pole 160, Sandy Lane
- Accepts up to 4 tires per resident per year
- Small fee per tire
- Tires on rims cost more
- Contact: (401) 738-2000
Cranston:
- Recycling Center, Scituate Avenue
- Resident tire disposal available
- Fees apply for tires with rims
- Proof of residency required
- Contact: (401) 461-1000
Pawtucket:
- Public Works yard accepts tires
- Specific hours for tire disposal
- Resident-only services
- Contact: (401) 728-0500 ext. 242
East Providence:
- DPW facility tire disposal
- Call ahead for hours and fees
- Contact: (401) 435-7500
Woonsocket:
- Municipal tire collection
- Check with DPW for schedule
- Contact: (401) 767-9226
Newport:
- Transfer station tire disposal
- Seasonal residents accepted
- Contact: (401) 845-5800
South County (Narragansett, South Kingstown, Westerly):
- Regional facilities available
- Check individual town requirements
- Proof of residency typically required
Rhode Island Eco-Depot Events
Free tire disposal opportunities throughout the year:
What Are Eco-Depot Events:
- RIRRC hosts periodic collection events
- FREE tire disposal for residents
- Rotate through different communities
- Also accept other hard-to-dispose items
- No appointment typically required
Locations Include:
- Providence
- Warwick
- Cranston
- Pawtucket
- East Providence
- Other cities on rotating schedule
How to Find Events:
- Visit RIRRC website: rirrc.org
- Call (401) 942-1430 for schedule
- Check local municipality websites
- Follow RIRRC on social media
- Sign up for email notifications
What You Can Bring:
- Passenger car tires
- Truck and SUV tires
- Trailer tires
- Motorcycle tires
- Bicycle tires (usually accepted with regular trash)
- Usually limit of 4-8 tires per household
Eco-Depot Advantages:
- Completely FREE
- Convenient rotating locations
- Accept tires on or off rims
- No residency documentation needed at some events
- Best value for Rhode Island residents
Tire Retailers and Auto Shops
Where you buy new tires often handles old tire disposal:
National Chains in Rhode Island:
- Tire Plus locations
- Town Fair Tire
- Goodyear Auto Service
- Firestone Complete Auto Care
- Mavis Discount Tire
- Monro Auto Service & Tire Centers
Typical Services:
- Accept old tires when purchasing new
- Disposal fee: $3-$6 per tire
- Some offer take-back without purchase (higher fee)
- Most handle tires with or without rims
- Call ahead to confirm policies
Big Box Stores:
- Walmart Auto Centers (select RI locations)
- Costco Tire Centers (Warwick, Cranston area)
- BJ's Tire Centers
- Typically include disposal in new tire price
Local Rhode Island Tire Shops:
- Many independent shops throughout state
- Often offer disposal services
- Prices vary ($3-$10 per tire)
- Support local businesses
- May offer better rates for multiple tires
Auto Dealerships:
- Accept tires when servicing vehicles
- Usually higher disposal fees
- Convenient if already doing service
- All major brands have RI locations
Scrap Tire Dealers and Recyclers
Specialized facilities accept larger quantities:
When to Use Scrap Dealers:
- More than 10-20 tires
- Commercial quantities
- Contractor/mechanic disposal needs
- Landscaping projects (removed tires)
- Farm or industrial equipment tires
Rhode Island Scrap Tire Facilities:
- Licensed by RIDEM
- Accept large quantities
- May charge by ton or per tire
- Some pickup services available
- Proper recycling guaranteed
Finding Licensed Dealers:
- RIDEM maintains approved list
- Check department website
- Verify licensing before use
- Ensure proper disposal methods
How Much Does Tire Disposal Cost in Rhode Island?
Pricing varies by location and service:
Municipal Transfer Stations:
- Passenger car tires: $3-$8 per tire
- Truck/SUV tires: $8-$15 per tire
- Tires on rims: $10-$20 per tire
- Large equipment tires: $25-$100+ per tire
- Best rates for residents
Eco-Depot Events:
- FREE - best value!
- No charge for standard tires
- Limit per household may apply
- Best option if event nearby
Tire Retailers:
- With purchase: $3-$5 per tire (often included)
- Without purchase: $5-$15 per tire
- On rims: Additional $5-$10
- Varies by retailer
Scrap Tire Dealers:
- Varies by quantity
- May charge per tire or by weight
- Pickup services available (additional cost)
- Commercial rates available
Cost Comparison:
- Eco-Depot: FREE (best value, periodic availability)
- Municipal: $3-$8 (good value, residents only)
- Retailers: $3-$6 (convenient with purchase)
- Without purchase: $5-$15 (less convenient)
Types of Tires and Disposal Considerations
Different tires have different disposal needs:
Passenger Car Tires:
- Most common type
- Standard disposal fees
- Accepted everywhere
- Easy to transport yourself
Truck and SUV Tires:
- Larger and heavier
- Higher disposal fees
- All facilities accept
- May need help loading
Trailer Tires:
- Accepted at most facilities
- Same size as car tires typically
- Boat trailer, utility trailer, RV trailer
- Standard disposal fees
Motorcycle Tires:
- Smaller than car tires
- Lower fees sometimes
- Accepted at all locations
- Easy to handle
ATV and Lawn Equipment Tires:
- Small tires usually accepted
- Lower fees
- Check with specific facility
- May have different rules
Large Equipment Tires:
- Farm tractors
- Construction equipment
- Industrial machinery
- Require specialized disposal
- Significantly higher fees ($50-$200+ per tire)
- Not all facilities accept
Bicycle Tires:
- Often accepted in regular trash (check municipality)
- Small size makes them exceptions
- Can bring to Eco-Depot events
- Some recycling programs accept
Tires with Rims vs. Without:
- Rims increase disposal cost ($5-$15 extra)
- Some facilities require rims removed
- Tire shops often handle both
- Eco-Depot accepts either way
Tire Disposal for Different Rhode Island Scenarios
Property Managers and Landlords
Common Scenarios:
- Tenant-abandoned tires
- Multi-family property cleanouts
- Between-tenant disposal needs
- Estate cleanouts
Best Options:
- Municipal facilities (if qualify as resident)
- Scrap tire dealers for quantities
- Include in junk removal services
- Budget for disposal in turnover costs
Considerations:
- Cannot use regular dumpster rentals
- Plan separate tire disposal
- Document for tenant charges if applicable
- Regular pickup arrangements possible
Contractors and Businesses
Typical Needs:
- Landscaping projects (tires in soil)
- Demolition site tires
- Property cleanup projects
- Vehicle fleet tire disposal
Requirements:
- Must use licensed scrap dealers
- Keep disposal records
- Cannot use residential Eco-Depot
- Commercial disposal arrangements
Solutions:
- Establish relationship with scrap dealer
- Schedule regular pickups
- Budget for disposal in project costs
- Proper documentation for RIDEM compliance
Seasonal Tire Storage Issues
Many Rhode Islanders switch between winter and summer tires:
Storage Challenges:
- Taking up garage space
- Eventually need disposal
- Both sets wear out
- Accumulation over years
Disposal Timing:
- Spring: Winter tire disposal (May-June)
- Fall: Summer tire disposal (October-November)
- Eco-Depot events often align with seasons
- Plan ahead for tire swap season
What to Do:
- Don't accumulate old sets
- Dispose when replacing
- Use Eco-Depot events strategically
- Ask tire shop about disposal when purchasing
What Happens to Recycled Tires in Rhode Island?
Your properly disposed tires become valuable materials:
Tire Recycling Process:
- Collection from approved facilities
- Transportation to processing centers
- Shredding into various sizes
- Separation of materials (rubber, steel, fiber)
- Processing into usable products
Recycled Tire Products:
- Crumb rubber for playground surfaces
- Athletic tracks and sports fields
- Rubber mulch for landscaping
- Tire-derived fuel for cement kilns and power generation
- Road construction (rubberized asphalt)
- Molded products (mats, bumpers, speed bumps)
- Construction materials and drainage systems
- New tires (small percentage in manufacturing)
Environmental Benefits:
- Diverts waste from landfills
- Reduces need for virgin materials
- Energy recovery from tire-derived fuel
- Prevents illegal dumping and mosquito breeding
- Conserves petroleum resources
- Creates recycling industry jobs
Rhode Island's Role:
- Strict regulations ensure recycling
- Licensed facilities track disposal
- RIDEM monitors compliance
- Part of broader waste reduction goals
Common Tire Disposal Mistakes to Avoid in Rhode Island
Learn from others' errors:
❌ Don't Leave Tires at Curb
- Not accepted with regular trash
- Won't be picked up
- May result in fines
- Creates neighborhood eyesore
❌ Don't Put Tires in Dumpster Rentals
- Prohibited by all companies
- Will result in additional fees
- May be refused and left behind
- Can cause rental contract issues
- Plan separate disposal
❌ Don't Dump Tires Illegally
- Vacant lots and woods
- Roadside dumping
- Private property without permission
- Fines up to $25,000
- Criminal charges possible
- Environmental damage
❌ Don't Burn Tires
- Illegal in Rhode Island
- Toxic smoke and fumes
- Fire hazard
- Heavy fines
- Health risks to community
❌ Don't Assume All Facilities Accept Tires
- Call ahead to confirm
- Check hours and requirements
- Verify acceptable tire types
- Bring proper payment/documentation
✅ Do Plan Ahead
- Separate tires from other disposal
- Wait for Eco-Depot events
- Call ahead to facilities
- Budget for disposal fees
- Keep tires stored properly until disposal
✅ Do Use Approved Methods
- Municipal facilities
- Eco-Depot events
- Licensed tire retailers
- Scrap tire dealers
- Proper documentation
Tire Disposal by Rhode Island Region
Providence and Urban Core
Advantages:
- Multiple disposal options
- Regular Eco-Depot events
- Many tire retailers
- Good access to facilities
Facilities:
- RIRRC headquarters region
- Frequent event schedule
- Urban transfer stations
- Numerous tire shops
Considerations:
- Traffic and parking
- Facility hours
- Proof of residency
- Higher volume locations
Warwick and Kent County
Advantages:
- Excellent municipal facility (Sandy Lane)
- Major tire retailer concentration
- Suburban convenience
- Good access
Popular Options:
- Warwick Recycling Center
- Multiple national tire chains
- Regular Eco-Depot rotation
- Easy highway access
Pawtucket and Blackstone Valley
Characteristics:
- Industrial heritage
- Good municipal services
- Local tire shops
- Community Eco-Depot events
Best For:
- Residents: Municipal facilities
- Businesses: Local scrap dealers
- Contractors: Commercial arrangements
East Bay (Barrington, Bristol, Warren)
Considerations:
- Smaller municipalities
- Less frequent Eco-Depot events
- May travel to neighboring towns
- Good local tire retailers
Solutions:
- Check multiple town schedules
- Warwick facility accessible
- Coordinate with tire purchases
- Plan for occasional events
Newport County
Unique Factors:
- Island location
- Tourist season impacts
- Seasonal resident issues
- Historic district considerations
Options:
- Newport transfer station
- Mainland facility access
- Tire retailers in Middletown
- Plan around tourist season
South County (Washington County)
Characteristics:
- Rural and coastal mix
- Larger travel distances
- Less frequent events
- Beautiful beach communities
Planning:
- Check multiple town options
- Eco-Depot worth the wait
- Coordinate with trips
- Local tire shops helpful
Northern Rhode Island
Woonsocket, Burrillville, North Smithfield:
- Strong municipal services
- Regular collection programs
- Local tire retailers
- Community-oriented disposal
Advantages:
- Less congested facilities
- Good local options
- Lower traffic stress
- Community support
Tire Disposal with Home Projects
Planning disposal alongside renovations:
When Renting a 15-Yard or 20-Yard Dumpster
Important Reminders:
- Tires cannot go in dumpster
- Tire fees may apply and vary by size (separate from rental)
- Plan separate tire disposal
- Complete tire disposal before or after dumpster rental
- Don't assume tires are accepted
Project Scenarios:
Garage Cleanouts:
- Common to find old tires
- Set tires aside separately
- Use dumpster for other garage items
- Take tires to Eco-Depot or transfer station
Property Cleanouts:
- Often encounter tires in yard/garage
- Cannot mix with estate cleanout dumpster
- Separate pile for tire disposal
- Budget separately for tire fees
Landscaping Projects:
- Sometimes tires buried or used as borders
- Remove and dispose separately
- Not accepted with soil/debris dumpster
- Plan two-stage disposal
Moving Cleanouts:
- May find tires in storage areas
- Handle separately from moving dumpster
- Don't let tires derail your timeline
- Quick trip to facility or wait for event
Coordinating Multiple Disposal Needs
Efficient Planning:
- Identify all disposal needs (renovation debris, tires, electronics, etc.)
- Rent 15-yard ($475) or 20-yard ($540) dumpster for accepted materials
- Plan separate tire disposal trip
- Consider Eco-Depot for multiple items
- One efficient plan covers everything
Example Timeline:
- Day 1: Dumpster delivered for renovation
- Days 1-7: Load dumpster with accepted materials (NOT tires)
- Day 5: Take tires to transfer station or set aside for Eco-Depot
- Day 7: Dumpster picked up
- Result: Clean property, proper disposal, compliance with regulations
Rhode Island Tire Disposal FAQs
Q: Can I put tires in my Rockhouse Disposal dumpster rental? A: No, tires are not accepted in dumpster rentals. Tire fees may apply and vary by size, and they require separate disposal through approved Rhode Island facilities.
Q: Where can I dispose of tires for free in Rhode Island? A: RIRRC Eco-Depot events offer FREE tire disposal. Check rirrc.org or call (401) 942-1430 for upcoming events in your area.
Q: How much does it cost to dispose of tires in Rhode Island? A: Eco-Depot events are free. Municipal transfer stations charge $3-$8 per tire. Tire retailers charge $3-$15 depending on purchase. Tires on rims cost $5-$15 more.
Q: What happens if I accidentally put tires in my dumpster? A: You'll be charged additional fees for removal and proper disposal. Tires may be rejected at the disposal facility, and you'll need to remove them. Always separate tires before loading.
Q: How many tires can I dispose of at one time? A: Eco-Depot events typically allow 4-8 tires per household. Municipal facilities vary—check with your town. Tire retailers usually accept any quantity when purchasing tires.
Q: Can I dispose of tires from out-of-state vehicles? A: At Eco-Depot events, usually yes (no residency check). Municipal facilities typically require Rhode Island residency. Tire retailers accept regardless of vehicle origin.
Q: Do I need to remove the rims before disposal? A: Not necessary at most facilities. Tires on rims cost more ($5-$15 additional), but most places accept them. Eco-Depot events accept both.
Q: Can I dispose of truck tires the same way as car tires? A: Yes, but they cost more ($8-$15 vs. $3-$8). All facilities accept them. Large commercial truck tires may require specialized disposal.
Q: What about tires from trailers, ATVs, or motorcycles? A: Generally accepted at all facilities under standard disposal programs. Smaller tires (motorcycle, ATV) may have lower fees.
Q: How long can I store tires before disposing? A: Store them properly (dry, covered, out of sun) until convenient disposal opportunity. Wait for free Eco-Depot event if not urgent.
Q: Are bicycle tires treated the same way? A: Bicycle tires are often accepted in regular trash due to their small size. Check your municipality. Eco-Depot events also accept them.
Q: What if I'm a contractor with many tires? A: Use licensed scrap tire dealers for commercial quantities. Cannot use residential Eco-Depot events. Must maintain disposal records for RIDEM compliance.
Making Tire Disposal Easy in Rhode Island
Best Practices for Rhode Island Residents:
- Plan Ahead: Don't wait until tires pile up
- Use Free Options: Eco-Depot events offer best value
- Separate from Other Waste: Never mix with dumpster rentals
- Know Your Options: Multiple disposal methods available
- Stay Compliant: Follow Rhode Island regulations
- Support Recycling: Your tires become useful products
- Educate Others: Share proper disposal information
Quick Reference Guide:
FREE Disposal:
- Eco-Depot events (check rirrc.org schedule)
Low-Cost Disposal:
- Municipal transfer stations ($3-$8 per tire)
- Tire retailers when purchasing ($3-$5)
Convenient Disposal:
- Tire shops and retailers (call for pricing)
- When replacing tires anyway
Large Quantities:
- Scrap tire dealers
- Commercial arrangements
- Contractor services
Tire Disposal and Your Dumpster Rental Project
When planning your Rhode Island project:
If You're Renting a Dumpster:
15-Yard Dumpster (12' × 7.6' × 4.6') - $475.00
- Perfect for: Kitchen, bathroom, single room renovations, garage cleanouts
- Includes: 2 tons, up to 7 days, $8/day extensions
- Does NOT include: Tire disposal (separate)
- Plan tire disposal before or after rental period
20-Yard Dumpster (14' × 8' × 6.5') - $540.00
- Perfect for: Whole-home cleanouts, multiple rooms, estate cleanouts, deck removal
- Includes: 2 tons, up to 7 days, $8/day extensions
- Does NOT include: Tire disposal (separate)
- Larger projects may encounter more tires - plan accordingly
Why This Matters:
- Prevents rental complications
- Avoids additional fees
- Ensures project stays on schedule
- Maintains compliance with regulations
- Proper disposal for all materials
Our Recommendation:
- Schedule your dumpster rental with Rockhouse Disposal for renovation debris
- Set tires aside during project
- Dispose of tires separately through approved channels
- Enjoy a smooth, compliant project
Our Dumpster Rental Services:
15-Yard Dumpster - $475.00
- 12' L × 7.6' W × 4.6' H
- 2 tons included
- Up to 7 days rental
- $8/day extensions
- Perfect for moderate projects
20-Yard Dumpster - $540.00
- 14' L × 8' W × 6.5' H
- 2 tons included
- Up to 7 days rental
- $8/day extensions
- Ideal for larger projects
What We Accept:
✓ Renovation debris
✓ Furniture and appliances
✓ Household cleanout items
✓ Construction materials
✓ Yard waste (check first)
✓ Most non-hazardous materials
What We Don't Accept:
✗ Tires (require separate disposal)
✗ Hazardous materials
✗ Electronics
✗ Batteries
✗ Paint and chemicals
Why Choose Rockhouse Disposal:
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Clear guidance on what's accepted
- Professional service throughout Rhode Island
- Flexible rental periods
- Local expertise and support
- We help you plan complete disposal strategy
For Your Tire Disposal:
- We'll direct you to nearest Eco-Depot events
- Provide municipal facility information
- Help you plan efficient disposal
- Coordinate timing with your dumpster rental
Contact us today for your Rhode Island dumpster rental needs. While we can't accept tires in our dumpsters, we're happy to help you plan complete, compliant disposal for all your project materials. Let us handle the renovation debris while you handle tires through approved Rhode Island channels.











