© 2026 WOSU Public Media
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Burned Recycling Center Had Safety Violations, Improper Permits

Phoenix Recycling
Google Maps
Phoenix Recycling on Marion Road

The Columbus recycling facility where a massive fire broke out last week had earlier been determined unsafe by city inspectors.

Inspectors determined in November that a building at the Phoenix

Recycling complex was unsafe and repairs hadn't been made. The business has also been operating without the proper zoning or permit to run a salvage yard for at least three years.

The fire broke out Friday and spewed a tower of thick, black smoke into the air. It's caused about $8 million in damage.

Inspectors say they're investigating whether there are any code violations at the site. The business was cited for two violations in 2012 that were both resolved a month later.

Fire officials haven't made a final determination on what caused the blaze. Company leaders estimate damages up to $8 million.