Regulatory Decision 055: Using whole waste tyres in construction
This Regulatory Decision (RD) is valid until 1 June 2025 by which time it will be reviewed. You should check back at that time to ensure the RD is still valid.
NRW can withdraw or amend this RD before the review date if we consider it necessary. This includes where the activities that this RD relates to have not changed.
Regulatory Decision
This Regulatory Decision (RD) applies to the storage and use of whole waste tyres in the foundations and retaining walls of buildings.
You usually need an environmental permit for a waste activity to store and use whole waste tyres in construction.
However, if you follow the conditions in this RD you can store and use whole waste tyres in construction without an environmental permit for a waste activity.
If you cannot comply with the conditions in this RD, you need to apply for an environmental permit.
Conditions you must comply with
You must meet these conditions to comply with this RD.
You must:
- only use tyres that have been ram filled with earth or suitable inert non-waste material
- cover stored tyres with waterproof material to prevent exposure to air and water
- store the tyres in stacks of no more than 10 tonnes
- separate the stacks by a minimum of 6 metres
- only store 40 tonnes or less of tyres on site at any one time
- tell us the location of your proposed construction project - you must receive confirmation in writing from us before you start work
- get building regulations approval for the construction of the building
Enforcement
This RD does not change your legal requirement to have an environmental permit for a waste operation when using whole waste tyres in construction.
However, NRW will not normally take enforcement action if you do not comply with the need for an environmental permit if you meet the requirements in this RD.
In addition, your activity must not cause (or be likely to cause) pollution of the environment or harm to human health, and must not:
- cause a risk to water, air, soil, plants or animals
- cause a nuisance through noise or odours
- adversely affect the countryside or places of special interest