YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio — The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency has issued a formal notice of violation to Diver Steel City Auto Crusher after inspectors found an estimated 5,000 scrap tires stored in open piles on the company’s Himrod Avenue property.
The violation, dated July 7, 2025, followed an April 23 inspection conducted by Ohio EPA officials in response to a complaint of open dumping in Mahoning County. The investigation was carried out to assess compliance with Ohio’s environmental laws under Chapter 3734 of the Ohio Revised Code and Chapter 3745-580 of the Ohio Administrative Code.
According to the notice, the agency observed multiple uncovered piles of tires stored near the north end of the property. Ohio Administrative Code Rule 3745-580-04(B) states, “No person shall dispose of scrap tires by open dumping or open burning.”
The EPA also noted that scrap tires must be kept dry at all times or treated with pesticide and transported to an appropriate facility. Transporting more than 10 scrap tires at a time requires use of a registered scrap tire transporter.
“To prevent causing a public health nuisance and public health hazard, scrap tires need to be kept dry at all times or treated with applications of a pesticide according to product label specifications,” the letter stated.
The agency is requesting written documentation of corrective action within 14 days, including photographs, disposal receipts, or other records showing compliance. The letter was signed by John Cybak, Environmental Specialist II with the Division of Materials and Waste Management.
“Failure to comply with ORC Chapter 3734 and rules promulgated thereunder may result in an administrative or civil penalty,” the notice stated. “If circumstances delay resolution of violations, please submit written correspondence describing the steps that will be taken by date certain to attain compliance.”
The Ohio EPA clarified that the submission of any requested information “does not constitute waiver of the Ohio EPA’s authority to seek administrative or civil penalties.”
The notice will be maintained as a public record. Questions regarding the violation may be directed to john.cybak@epa.ohio.gov or by phone at (330) 963-1254.
Add comment
Comments