To be beneficially used or recycled, a vehicular tire must first be cut or shredded into pieces. Larger shreds (up to 4" x 10") can be used in civil engineering applications, whereas small (2" x 2") wire-free shred is needed for fuel applications. Most reuse or recycling applications require small "chips" (one-half inch) or a powderized form called ground rubber.

Before DEQ's tire program began, there were only 2 processors of Virginia tires, one of which was in Baltimore. Now, there are 11 sites in Virginia and 5 outside the state that handle Virginia waste tires.

The following is a listing of businesses known to process/use waste tires generated in Virginia.

Note: DEQ does not endorse any of these businesses nor can it ensure compliance with all applicable environmental laws, regulations or permits. It is the user's responsibility to ensure that his waste tires are handled properly.