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Questions or Comments: tires@tceq.texas.gov

Requirements for Used or Scrap Tire Generators

Tire retailers, automotive dismantlers, fleet operators, wholesalers, manufacturers, and recappers or retreaders must register with the TCEQ as generators if on-site storage exceeds certain thresholds.

The TCEQ is requesting an activity status update from all used or scrap tire generators registered before January 1, 2014. Complete the Status of Scrap Tire Registration tirerpts@tceq.texas.gov, or by mail to Business and Program Services Section, Scrap Tire Management Program, MC 126, TCEQ, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, TX, 78711-3087. 

 

Exemption from Registration Requirements

As a generator, you may store up to 500 used or scrap tires (or weight equivalent tire pieces, or combination of whole tires and pieces) without a registration if the tires are stored at the location where they are generated.

If you are exempted you still have to follow the general requirements for generators.

Register with the TCEQ if on-site storage exceeds storage limits noted above.

Who Needs to Apply for a Scrap Tire Generator Registration?

As a generator, you need to register with the TCEQ if you store more than 500 tires, either on the ground or in locked containers, trailers, and buildings.

Storage Limits for Registered Generators

If you register with the TCEQ as a scrap tire generator, you may store up to:

  • 500 used or scrap tires (or weight equivalent tire pieces, or combination of whole tires and pieces) on the ground; or
  • 2,000 tires (or weight equivalent tire pieces, or combination of whole tires and pieces) in enclosed and lockable trailers or other containers.

If you store more tires than the limits referenced above, you must also obtain a scrap tire storage registration for the site.

How to Apply for a Scrap Tire Generator Registration

Forms to apply for a registration, or update your status or contact information:

General Requirements for Generators

  • Register with the TCEQ if on-site storage exceeds storage limits noted above.
  • Apply for a Scrap Tire Facility registration if you cut, bale, shred, or process tires for volume reduction.
  • Monitor tires stored outside for vectors; utilize vector control measures at least once every two weeks.
  • Sort, mark, classify, and arrange good used tires in an organized manner if the tires are intended for sale. If not, the tires will be counted as scrap tires and could trigger the requirement for a storage registration.
  • Document the removal and management of all scrap tires and tire pieces using manifests and retain related records.
  • Allow only registered scrap tire transporters to remove used or scrap tires or tire pieces unless you are self-transporting.
  • Ensure that the transporter who collects the tires or tire pieces delivers them to an authorized facility.
  • Obtain the completed manifest within 60 days after the transporter has removed scrap tires.

Tire Management Fees

The state does not mandate or require a fee for the collection, transportation, and disposal of scrap tires. Generators may charge customers for scrap tire disposal, or may include the cost in the price of the tires.
Fees for tire removal are negotiated between generators and transporters.

Transporting and Recordkeeping Requirements

Self-Transport by a Generator

If you are a generator of used or scrap tires you may transport them between your own business locations or to an authorized scrap tire facility without a transporter registration, but you must comply with all tire manifesting and record keeping requirements in the TCEQ rules.

Hauling by a Registered Transporter

If you are not self-transporting the tires to an authorized scrap tire facility for end-use, recycling, or disposal, use a registered scrap tire transporter to remove used or scrap tires. Follow the link below to find one in your area and understand the record keeping requirements.

Disposing of Used or Scrap Tires

Several types of facilities are authorized to receive used or scrap tires, including scrap tire processors, tire recyclers, facilities using tire-derived fuel, land reclamation projects using tires, tire storage sites, and permitted municipal solid waste landfills.

Rules and Guidance

  • Title 30, Texas Administrative Code, Section 328.56
    State rules establishing procedures and requirements for used or scrap tire generators
  • Local Requirements: If you manage used or scrap tires or tire pieces you must also follow all local ordinances and regulations.

Contact the Scrap Tire Program

Please contact the Scrap Tire Program if you have questions about used or scrap tire management.