Can I put tires in the trash in Howard County?

No, tires are not accepted in regular trash or curbside collection. They must be taken to Alpha Ridge Landfill, a tire shop, or a tire recycler.

How much does Alpha Ridge charge for tire disposal?

Alpha Ridge Landfill charges a fee for tire disposal. Passenger car tires are typically $3-5 each. Truck and tractor tires cost more. Check with the landfill for current rates.

Will tire shops take my old tires?

Yes, most tire shops will dispose of old tires when you purchase new ones. Some charge a small disposal fee ($2-5 per tire), while others include it in the installation price.

How many tires can I bring to Alpha Ridge?

Howard County residents can bring up to 4 passenger tires per visit. For larger quantities or commercial disposal, contact the landfill in advance.

What happens to recycled tires?

Recycled tires are processed into crumb rubber for playground surfaces, athletic tracks, rubber mulch for landscaping, and fuel for industrial processes.

How to Dispose of Tires in Howard County

The short answer: Tires can't go in the trash. Take them to Alpha Ridge Landfill (fee applies), have a tire shop dispose of them when buying new ones, or use a tire recycling service.

Old car tires stacked and ready for disposal or recycling

Why Tires Need Special Disposal

Tires are banned from regular trash for good reason:

Fire hazard – Tire fires are extremely difficult to extinguish and release toxic smoke
Breeding ground – Discarded tires collect water and become mosquito breeding sites
Landfill problems – Tires trap gases and can "float" to the surface over time
Recyclable material – Rubber can be repurposed into useful products

Your Options for Tire Disposal

Option 1: Tire Shop Take-Back (Easiest)

When you buy new tires, the shop will almost always dispose of your old ones.

Cost: $2-5 per tire (often included in installation)

Where: Discount Tire, Costco, Sam's Club, Firestone, Goodyear, local shops

Best for: Replacing tires—they handle everything

Tip: Ask about disposal fees upfront when getting tire quotes

Option 2: Alpha Ridge Landfill

Howard County residents can bring tires to the landfill for a fee.

Cost: Fee per tire (call for current rates)

Limit: Up to 4 passenger tires per visit

Address: 2350 Marriottsville Rd, Marriottsville, MD 21104

Hours: Monday–Saturday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

What to bring: Valid ID proving Howard County residency

Option 3: Tire Recyclers

Some facilities specialize in tire recycling and may accept tires for a fee.

Cost: Varies by facility ($2-10 per tire)

Best for: Large quantities or commercial disposal

What happens: Tires are shredded into crumb rubber for playgrounds, tracks, and landscaping

Pro Tip

If you're having tires installed at Costco or Sam's Club, old tire disposal is usually included in the installation fee. Always confirm before your appointment.

Tire Disposal Fees

Tire Type	Tire Shop	Alpha Ridge
Passenger Car	$2-5 each	$3-5 each
Light Truck / SUV	$3-6 each	$5-8 each
Motorcycle	$2-3 each	$2-4 each
Lawn Mower / ATV	Varies	$3-5 each
Tractor / Heavy Equipment	Call for quote	$20+ each

Note: Prices are estimates and may vary. Call ahead to confirm current rates.

Tires on Rims

Tires still mounted on rims may cost extra to dispose of, as they require additional processing. If possible, have rims removed before disposal, or expect a higher fee.

What About Specialty Tires?

Lawn Mower & Riding Mower Tires

Accepted at Alpha Ridge. Small push mower tires are sometimes accepted by tire shops if you ask nicely.

Bicycle Tires

These can actually go in regular trash since they're not vehicle tires. Better yet, check with local bike shops—some recycle inner tubes and tires.

Wheelbarrow & Hand Truck Tires

Small rubber tires can go in regular trash. Larger pneumatic tires should go to Alpha Ridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I leave old tires on the curb?

No. Tires are not collected curbside in Howard County. Leaving them out can result in fines and creates mosquito breeding grounds.

What if I have more than 4 tires?

Alpha Ridge limits residential drop-offs to 4 tires per visit. For larger quantities, contact them in advance or use a tire recycling service.

Can I get paid for old tires?

Generally no—you'll pay for disposal. However, if you have specialty or vintage tires/rims in good condition, you might sell them to enthusiasts online.

Are tire disposal fees tax-deductible?

Only if disposing of tires as part of a business expense. Personal tire disposal is not tax-deductible.

Got a Pile of Old Tires?

If you're cleaning out a garage or property with multiple tires, we can haul them away along with other junk. One trip, everything gone.

Get a Free Quote