1) EPA inspections to enforce new rules around waste tyre stockpiles
Media Release March 02 2016

Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) is inspecting waste tyre storage facilities across the state to enforce new regulations around waste tyre stockpile sites.

EPA Chief Executive Officer Nial Finegan said the inspection program, with support from Victoria’s fire services, follows the introduction of waste tyre storage regulations in 2015 that aim to minimise the fire hazard associated with storing large volumes of waste tyres.

Under these regulations, businesses storing more than 40 tonnes or 5,000 standard car passenger waste tyres must obtain a works approval and licence from EPA. Unlicensed premises face fines up to $350,000 under the Environment Protection Act 1970.

“Recent tyre fires in Broadmeadows and Brooklyn in Melbourne’s north and west highlight the risks around stockpiling significant numbers of waste tyres,” Mr Finegan said.

“Once ignited, tyres are difficult to extinguish and cause significant environmental, social and economic costs.”

Mr Finegan said EPA expected to conduct approximately 15 inspections and would target businesses who have indicated they’re storing less than 5,000 tyres. Inspections have already begun in metropolitan Melbourne and across regional Victoria.   

“EPA officers will provide guidance to those businesses who are seeking to comply with the new regulations. Where there’s a risk to the community or the environment, EPA will require improvements through statutory notices. Operators who choose to ignore the new laws around waste tyre storage face a $7,500 fine or prosecution in court.”

Further information on Victoria’s new tyre storage regulations and licensing requirements is available on EPA’s website.