Quick answer: Start with the tire-recycling program for your province. Many programs let households return eligible used tires to registered retailers or recycling depots without a separate drop-off charge. The correct location, limits and rim requirements depend on the province and the site. Call ahead before loading tires.
Looking for local disposal rules?
Choose a province to find the city where the item is located.
Find a tire drop-off in your province
British Columbia
Tire Stewardship BC lists Return-to-Retailer locations. Its consumer guidance covers up to four clean passenger/light-truck tires off their rims and recommends calling ahead to check capacity. Rims are outside the standard program; participating locations may charge if they accept tires still mounted on rims.
Ontario
Ontario operates a producer-responsibility tire program. Producers must provide accessible collection options and qualifying public drop-offs are free for eligible tires. Site acceptance limits and eligible tire types depend on the collector. Check the Resource Productivity and Recovery Authority (RPRA) and confirm the exact collection site's conditions. Ontario's tire regulation was amended in September 2026, so older third-party summaries may be out of date.
Alberta
The Alberta Recycling Management Authority provides a tire program and depot finder. Passenger, light-truck and some specialty tires have program pathways; check which tire types your chosen collection point accepts before visiting.
Québec
RECYC-QUÉBEC advises residents to return eligible end-of-life tires without a separate drop-off charge to participating garages, tire retailers or dealers. Check the retailer's acceptance requirements for your tire type and quantity.
Other provinces and territories
Use the Canadian Association of Tire Recycling Agencies' member directory to find the applicable provincial or territorial organization. Do not assume that another province's fee, rim or quantity rule applies where you live.
Before you drive to a tire recycling location
- Count the tires and identify whether they are passenger, truck, commercial, agricultural, or specialty tires.
- Check whether rims must be removed and whether your collection point accepts mounted tires.
- Confirm quantity limits, hours and whether reservations or proof of residency are required.
- Ask about any fee for mounting, tire removal, rim handling or unusually large loads.
- Secure your tires for transport and follow the collection site's unloading instructions.
Common questions
Is used-tire drop-off always free?
No. Many programs offer free drop-off of eligible tires, but mounted tires, ineligible tire types, extra services and unusually large quantities can incur charges. Ask your specific collection site.
Can old tires go out with regular garbage?
Do not assume they can. Use the established recycling pathway for your province or follow the municipality's specific disposal instructions.
Can I leave old tires outside a tire shop after hours?
No. Return them only during approved collection hours and follow the site's hand-off instructions.
Sources
- Tire Stewardship BC — Recycle Your Tires
- RPRA — Ontario Tires Program
- RPRA — Tire producer collection requirements
- Alberta Recycling — Tires Program
- RECYC-QUÉBEC — What to do with used materials
- CATRA — Provincial and territorial program members
Sources checked October 13, 2026. Facility acceptance and schedules can change; confirm with the program before travel.