Scrap metal dealers licence

To be a scrap metal dealer, you must hold either a site licence or a collectors licence. 

Site licences

Are for sites where scrap metal business takes place. You can transport scrap metal to and from the site from any local authority  area. 

Collectors licence 

This allows you to collect scrap metal within the local authority area

You can only hold one type of licence in each local authority area. 

How much it costs

Licence duration

Licences last for 3 years.

Other charges

If you wish to vary or change details, please contact the licensing team (details below).

How to apply

You will need to

Log into your MyAccount (or create an account if you don't already have one) to complete the form. MyAccount is an easier and quicker way to interact with us and is available 24/7.

• complete the application form
• pay the appropriate fee

Apply for a scrap metal licence

Renew licence 

From 4th April 2022 legislation requires that you undertake a Tax Conditionality check when you renew your licence
Information on how to do this can be found here: Link to GOV.UK: Complete a tax check
You will need to enter your check code on MyAccount when you renew your licence.

Apply to renew a scrap metal licence

What happens next?

Part of processing your application involves consulting with other agencies. This may take up to 28 days.

If your application is successful, we will send the licence at your registered address.

The licence will come with conditions relating to the below, although we can add additional conditions:

• receiving scrap metal
• buying scrap metal for cash
• record keeping
• displaying of licence information

If we refuse a licence, we will write to you to tell you why and how to appeal.

You must not operate without a licence. If you do, or if you break a condition of a licence, you could receive a fine of up to £5,000, and your licence could be taken away.

Useful information

View the Scrap metal dealers act 2013 supplementary guidance (PDF, 279KB)