The Waste Tire Disposal Act (Idaho Code § 39-65), regulates waste tire transport, storage, and disposal in Idaho. Residents and businesses should be aware of the requirements before engaging in any waste tire management activities. The definition of waste tire does not include off-road or farm tires.
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Idaho Code § 39-65 prohibits the transport of waste tires to any site that is not an approved waste tire storage site or a site approved to accept tires for disposal.
Improperly stored tires present a fire hazard, a major health hazard to first responders, and can provide a breeding ground for insects bearing disease. Unless specifically exempt or subject to a higher limit, persons and businesses are restricted to storing less than 200 on-road tires at a site. Storage includes any use of whole tires, whether or not part of a structure or other project. Storage of more than 200 tires requires approval from the county and the posting of a $2.50 cash bond per tire.
Residents should contact their local landfill to determine if waste tires are accepted for disposal and if there is a limit. Businesses should make arrangements with a tire transporter, recycler, or disposal company. Landfills are required to process tires for volume reduction prior to landfilling. Illegal dumping of waste tires is prosecuted by cities, counties, and the state, and penalties are up to $500 per tire.
DEQ has acknowledged legitimate tire recycling processes that result in products with proven marketability. DEQ has not recognized the direct reuse of whole tires for any purpose. Unless specifically exempt or subject to a higher limit in Idaho Code § 39-65, a person or business may only have up to 200 whole tires on site at any time and remain in compliance. These 200 tires may be used in any manner other than within waterways or in a manner that presents an environmental or human health concern.
The “Solid Waste Management Rules” (IDAPA 58.01.06) prohibit speculative accumulation of stockpiles of materials or recyclables, including tires, which may create a nuisance or have a public health impact. At least 50% of the stockpiles of tires at recycling facilities are to be processed for reuse or disposal by the end of the calendar year after the date of the first receipt. Failure to do so results in the facility being deemed an unauthorized facility, or in cases where the facility is authorized, may result in a citation and monetary penalty.