Tire-Derived Aggregate Grant Program

The Tire-Derived Aggregate Grant Program administered by the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery is a state-level funding opportunity designed to promote the beneficial reuse of waste tires through engineering and construction applications. The program supports the use of tire-derived aggregate, a material produced from shredded waste tires that is lightweight, cost-effective, and suitable for a variety of infrastructure and environmental applications. This initiative aligns with California’s broader environmental goals to divert waste tires from landfills, reduce illegal dumping, and expand markets for recycled materials. The primary objective of the program is to fund projects that incorporate tire-derived aggregate into construction or engineering solutions. Eligible project categories include mechanically stabilized earth structures such as retaining walls, stormwater management systems, lightweight fill applications for slope stabilization or embankments, vibration mitigation under transportation infrastructure, and landfill-related applications such as drainage and gas collection systems. Projects must meet strict requirements, including the use of California-generated waste tires processed within the state, a minimum threshold of material usage, and compliance with engineering and design standards reviewed by program staff. Funding for the fiscal year is limited, with a total of $750,000 available and a maximum award of $375,000 per project. Funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis and will not exceed the approved amount stated in the grant agreement. Applicants may submit proposals for multiple projects within a single application, provided all requirements are met. The grant term begins upon issuance of a Notice to Proceed and extends through April 1, 2029, during which all project activities must be completed. Eligibility for this program is broad and includes California-based public agencies, educational institutions, private for-profit entities, nonprofit organizations, and qualifying tribal entities. All applicants must be in good standing with relevant state authorities and, where applicable, must demonstrate authorization to conduct business in California. Additional requirements include ownership or control of the project site and the adoption or commitment to adopt an Environmentally Preferable Purchasing and Practices policy. Applications must also include documentation verifying authorization to apply, such as resolutions or letters of commitment. The application process is conducted through an online Grants Management System and requires submission of several components, including a completed application form, project design plans, a project summary and cost calculation document, and required authorization documents. Applicants must ensure that all required fields are completed and that supporting documents are properly uploaded by the specified deadlines. Failure to meet submission requirements or eligibility criteria may result in disqualification. The application includes structured sections such as applicant information, project details, budget, and certifications. Applications are reviewed for completeness and eligibility, and funding decisions are made based on the availability of funds and project merit. Projects may be prioritized based on the volume of tire-derived aggregate used and the category of application, with landfill projects receiving lower priority. The program operates in multiple cycles within the fiscal year, with application deadlines on July 16, 2026, October 15, 2026, and January 13, 2027. Award notifications are expected in the months following each cycle’s deadline, and selected applicants must comply with reporting, payment, and audit requirements throughout the grant term.

Ensure project design plans meet minimum completeness requirements; verify TDA material thresholds; use official templates without modification; confirm eligibility and documentation before submission