Scrap Metal Dealers

A summary of the regulation relating to this registration Scrap Metal Dealers Act 1964 (External Link)

Downloadable application for registration to act as a scrap metal dealer (.pdf, 208kb)

Apply online to register as a scrap metal dealer (External Link)

A scrap metal dealer shall be classed as carrying on a business in the local authority area if any of the following apply:

• the dealer occupies a place as a scrap metal store in the area
• the dealer does not occupy a place as a scrap metal store but has a usual place of residence in the area
• the dealer does not occupy a place as a scrap metal store but occupies a place for business purposes

Applicants must provide the following:

• their full name
• the address of the dealer, or in the case of a company, their registered or principal office
• the address of each place occupied as a scrap metal store, if any
• if the business is carried on without a scrap metal store
• if the business is carried on without a scrap metal store but the applicant occupies a place for the purposes of business, and the address of such a place

There is no fee associated with this application.  Receipt of your completed application form will be confirmed in writing, and a certificate of registration issued. 

Registrations issued are valid for a period of 3 years from the date on which the entry was made in the register. A further application for registration must therefore be made before the expiry date.

The registered dealer must notify the local authority of any changes to these details or if they cease to be a scrap metal dealer.

No. It is in the public interest that we must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from the Licensing Section within a reasonable period, please contact it. You can do this online if you applied through the UK Welcomes service (External Link) or use the contact details below.

Additional Information (issued with all registrations) (.pdf, 20kb)

Any change of circumstances in relation to an existing registration must be notified to the relevant local authority. This includes the surrendering of a registration or any other material change to the registration or how you operate.

Apply online to make a change to a scrap metal dealer registration (External Link)

Please contact the Licensing Section in the first instance.

We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by you - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, Consumer Direct (External Link) will give you advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre (External Link) .

British Metals Recycling Association (BMRA) (External Link)

International Aluminium Institute (External Link)

International Lead Association (External Link)

Metal Bulletin (External Link)