Free tire drop-off event in Dearborn on June 24, how to properly dispose of old tires
Getting rid of old tires can be a pain. You can't just leave them on your curbside along with the rest of your trash and they occupy a significant amount of space.
Improper disposal of tires is illegal, poses environmental risks and can even lead to fire hazards; they require special handling.
"Scrap tires can be hazardous to our environment and the public health of Michigan if not properly managed," according to Michigan's Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. "Run-off from scrap tire fires can contaminate water and scrap tire sites are an ideal habitat for the breeding of mosquitoes carrying disease such as West Nile Virus."
Upcoming tire drop off for Dearborn residents
On Saturday, June 24, the City of Dearborn Department of Public Works and Facilities is hosting a free tire drop-off event for Dearborn residents, from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m.
Drop-offs will take place at the city's DPW Yard, located at 2951 Greenfield in Dearborn. Each household will be able to dispose of up to eight tires.
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"This special event is separate from the monthly DPW Yard bulk materials disposal day and is only for the proper discarding of tires," according to the City of Dearborn. Deaborn's DPW Yard is open for free drop-offs of bulk waste, that is not picked from your curb, on the third Saturday of every month.
Scrap tire oversight in Michigan
"It is illegal to dispose of whole motor vehicle tires in Michigan landfills," according to EGLE. The department has established the Scrap Tire Program, "overseeing the handling of scrap tires generated in Michigan, cleaning up existing scrap tire piles of 500 or more tires, and expanding the reuse and recycling of scrap tires."
To properly and legally dispose of old tires, even for a small fee:
Contact local authorities, such as the Department of Public Works, to inquire about tire recycling programs or events in your city.
Find a local tire disposal company, recycling center or processor near you. The Michigan Recycling Directory could be of assistance.
Reach out to local tire shops who may accept your used tires or sell your them online.
For more information on tire disposal in Michigan, click here.
Contact Nour Rahal: nrahal@freepress.com
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Properly disposing old tires: Free drop-offs in Dearborn on June 24
