South Carolina Statewide Rule

South Carolina Solid Waste Policy and Recycling Mandates

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across South Carolina (2026)

Key Facts

Recycling goal: 40% statewide
Banned from landfills: Tires, oil, batteries
Yard waste: Banned since 1993
Authority: SCDES (formerly DHEC)
Statute: SC Code 44-96

Last verified: August 21, 2026Source: South Carolina Legislature

Summary

The South Carolina Solid Waste Policy and Management Act (Title 44 Chapter 96) bans certain materials from landfills statewide and sets a 40% recycling goal. Lead-acid batteries, used oil, tires, and yard waste are banned from disposal.

(D) Each county or region submitting a solid waste management plan containing a source separation, resource recovery, recycling programs, or all of the above to the department shall provide its residents with the opportunity to recycle the categories of solid waste materials designated in the county or regional solid waste management plan. The opportunity to recycle may include one or more of the following: (1) curbside collection systems; (2) drop-off centers; (3) collection centers; or (4) collection systems for multi-family residences.

Source: South Carolina LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

South Carolina Code Title 44, Chapter 96, the Solid Waste Policy and Management Act of 1991, prohibits the landfill disposal of several materials statewide: lead-acid batteries, used oil, whole tires (since 1991), yard waste (since 1993), white goods (appliances), and certain electronics. Counties must offer recycling collection or drop-off for these materials. The Act sets a statewide recycling goal of 40 percent and requires SCDES to publish annual progress reports. Local governments must develop solid-waste management plans consistent with state policy. The state does not mandate curbside recycling but preempts disposal of banned items in any landfill.

Violations & Penalties

Disposing banned materials in a landfill is a violation under SCDES Regulation 61-107, with civil penalties up to $10,000 per day per violation against waste generators or haulers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Must my city offer curbside recycling under state law?

No. South Carolina does not mandate curbside service. Counties must, however, provide drop-off recycling for banned materials like used oil, tires, batteries, and yard waste.

Can I throw old tires or motor oil in my regular trash?

No. State law bans tires, used oil, lead-acid batteries, and yard waste from landfills. Take these to a county recycling center or authorized retailer for proper disposal.

Sources

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.