Free tire drop-off planned nearby for Volusia residents

Volusia County’s Mosquito Control Division is hosting a free Tire Amnesty event from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 18 at 801 South St. in New Smyrna Beach. The county says the program is intended to help residents get rid of old tires that can collect rainwater and become breeding sites for mosquitoes.

For Edgewater residents, the event is especially practical because it is being held in neighboring New Smyrna Beach, making it a convenient disposal option for households in the south part of the county. According to the county, each household may bring up to 20 tires, but the tires must be off the rim. Participants will also need to show proof of Volusia County residency.

Why the county is targeting unused tires

County officials say discarded tires left outdoors can quickly fill with water after rain, creating ideal conditions for mosquitoes to lay eggs and multiply. Removing those containers from yards and vacant areas is a simple prevention step that can reduce mosquito populations around homes and neighborhoods. That matters in spring and summer, when warmer weather and frequent rain can accelerate mosquito activity across Volusia County.

The county noted that the last Tire Amnesty event in January collected more than 1,600 tires, suggesting strong public demand for the service. Staff will be on-site to guide drivers through an easy drive-thru drop-off route, which should help keep the process moving for residents arriving with loads to unload.

What residents should know before going

The county says the event is limited to residential use. Tires from commercial businesses or auto shops will not be accepted. Residents planning to participate should make sure tires are separated from rims before arrival and should be prepared to verify that they live in Volusia County.

For Edgewater readers, this is the kind of county service that can have a direct neighborhood benefit. Fewer water-filled tires can mean fewer mosquitoes around homes, patios, and yards as the wetter months approach. With the event taking place just north in New Smyrna Beach, it offers a nearby chance to clear out hard-to-dispose-of items while supporting a broader public health effort.