Scrap Metal
Scrap metal dealing or the running of a scrap metal business (including motor salvage operators) is controlled by the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013.
No person may carry on the business as a scrap metal dealer unless they are licensed to do so by their Local Authority. Since October 2013, cash cannot be used by a scrap metal dealer to buy scrap metal. It is an offence and there are no exemptions.
A scrap metal dealer’s licence lasts for three years and must be renewed on or before the expiry date, if the licence holder wishes to carry on as a scrap metal dealer.
There are two types of licence:
- site licence – for carrying on business at any site in the council’s area, which will be specified in the licence
- collector’s licence – for carrying on business as a mobile collector.
How to apply
Submit a completed form (PDF, 174KB, 6 pages), relevant documents and fee online.