How and Where Drivers in BC Recycle Their Old Tires
When drivers in BC replace their old tires with new ones and take the used tires home, these tires become “orphan” tires—left to sit in garages, sheds, or storage spaces. Over time, they accumulate, and eventually, you realize you no longer need them.
But did you know that by leaving your old tires at the auto shop when purchasing new ones, you’re already ensuring they enter the tire recycling program?
This convenient action helps prevent tires from ending up in landfills and ensures they are properly collected and recycled in BC.
However, if you’ve already taken your old tires home, how can you dispose of them properly and for free? That’s where Tire Stewardship BC’s Return-to-Retailer (R2R) program comes in.
A Convenient, Free, and Responsible Solution
Hundreds of tire retailers across BC voluntarily participate in the R2R program, providing drivers with a convenient way to drop off their orphan tires at no cost. To ensure smooth processing, tires must be:
- Off the rim (rims are not part of the program, though some locations may accept them for a fee)
- Free of debris
- Up to four tires per drop-off
When and Where Are People Searching for Drop-Off Locations?
In 2024, over 26,000 residents of BC searched for tire drop-off locations. The data shows that the highest search activity comes from the Lower Mainland, Prince George, Victoria, and Nanaimo. Notably, searches for tire recycling peak in August, as drivers prepare for seasonal tire changes. The majority of residents are focused on recycling their car and light truck tires over large tires.
How to Find an R2R Location Near You
Finding a drop-off location is easy. Visit TSBC.CA and use the search tool to enter your location. The tool will provide a list of the nearest participating R2R locations where you can safely dispose of your old tires.
