Pinellas County has waived residential tire disposal fees from September 28 to October 30, 2026, to reduce backyard mosquito breeding sites after declaring a dengue-related state of emergency on September 24. Residents with a valid driver’s license may drop off up to four tires (36 inches or smaller) free at 3095 114th Ave. N; rims are allowed and tires must be kept separate from other trash. The action responds to 179 confirmed dengue cases across the Tampa Bay region and rising West Nile virus activity detected in sentinel chickens. The waiver applies only to residential drop-offs and visitors must follow facility safety rules.
Pinellas County Waives Residential Tire Fees To Curb Mosquito Breeding Amid Dengue Alert
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Pinellas County, Florida, has temporarily waived residential tire disposal fees to reduce mosquito breeding sites after declaring a dengue-related state of emergency on September 24, 2026.
Tire Disposal Waiver: What Residents Need To Know
From September 28 through October 30, 2026, residents with a valid driver’s license may drop off up to four household tires free of charge at the Pinellas County Solid Waste Disposal Complex, 3095 114th Ave. N. Each tire must be 36 inches in diameter or smaller. The waiver covers residential drop-offs only and does not apply to businesses.
The county asks that tires be kept separate from other household trash when arriving at the facility; rims may remain attached. Visitors should follow posted safety requirements at the site, including wearing closed-toe shoes while unloading.
Why Tires Matter
Old tires can collect rainwater and become one of the most productive breeding sites for mosquitoes near homes. Pinellas County warns that one water-filled tire can produce thousands of mosquitoes over a single season, increasing the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever.
"Removing these tires helps reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever," the county said on its website.
Regional Context and Additional Measures
The move comes as public health officials report 179 confirmed dengue cases across the Tampa Bay region (Pinellas, Pasco and Hillsborough counties). County officials also noted increased West Nile virus activity detected in sentinel chicken coops—an early warning sign for potential human transmission.
Other mosquito-control approaches being used in the region and beyond include homeowner use of larvicides (mosquito dunks) for standing water, drone releases of sterile mosquitoes in Lee County to suppress populations, and community incentive programs in some international locations.
Residents seeking details about commercial tire disposal fees and any additional rules should visit the Pinellas County Solid Waste or public health pages for current guidance.
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