There have been some recent changes introduced by the government to regulate the scrap metal sector.
The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 has replaced the previous registration system for scrap metal dealers created by the 1964 Scrap Metal Dealers Act. In its place has been established a new licensing regime which will be run and administered by local authorities. Every scrap metal dealer is now required to have a licence and operating without one will be a criminal offence.
Under the new legislation the definition of scrap metal dealers is extended so it now includes motor salvage operators, and the provisions in the Vehicles (Crime) Act 2001 under which they operate will end once the new Act comes into effect on 1 October 2013.
A national register of scrap metal dealers can be found on the Environment Agency website.
There are two types of licences available, each valid for three years:
- Site Licence
- Collectors Licence (mobile collectors will need licences for every local authority in which they collect)
A licensee can hold only one licence in any one local authority area.
The fee to apply for a licence is £330 for a site licence and £265 for a collectors licence. Applications cannot be accepted unless the correct fee has been paid.
An application form for a Scrap Metal Licence and a guide to help with completing the application process is available to download below.
Contact us for further information
Environmental Protection Team
Scaitcliffe House
Omerod Street
Accrington
BB5 0PF
01254 388 111