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Scrap metal

The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 came into force on 1 October 2013. It replaced the previous registration system for scrap metal dealers and licensing system for motor salvage operators.

In order for anyone to carry on a business as a scrap metal dealer, they must have a licence issued under the 2013 Act. Trading without a licence is a criminal offence.

The Environment Agency publishes a public register which clearly identifies all licensed scrap metal collectors including those who are permitted to collect in Telford and Wrekin.

There are two types of licences:

  • Site licence - All the sites where a licensee carries on business as a scrap metal dealer, in the area of the issuing local authority, must be identified and a site manager must be named for each site. The licence allows the licensee to transport scrap metal to and from those sites from any local authority area.
  • Collector's licence - This allows the licensee to operate as a collector in the area of the issuing local authority. It does not allow the collector to operate in any other local authority area, so a separate licence must be obtained from each council the collector wishes to operate in. The licence does not authorise the licensee to operate a site.

Application process

Your application should be accompanied by a licence fee and a basic criminal disclosure check.

The basic disclosure must be dated within three months' of submitting your application.

The Council cannot grant a licence unless it is satisfied that the person is suitable to operate a business as a scrap metal dealer. In determining the suitability of an applicant, the Council will have regard to its policy for determining the suitability of an applicant for a Scrap Metal Dealers Licence.

Last updated: 14/03/2022 14:10

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