HOW TO GET A SCRAP METAL COLLECTOR’S LICENCE
A Step-by-Step Guide to Legal Compliance in the UK
Under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, anyone who collects scrap metal in the UK must be licensed. Operating without a licence is a criminal offence with heavy fines. This guide walks you through getting a scrap metal collector’s licence. It will help your mobile collection business operate legally in the recycling industry.
WHAT IS A COLLECTOR’S LICENCE?
The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 created a licensing system to fight metal theft. A Collector’s Licence is for mobile collectors who travel to collect scrap metal. This licence lets you legally collect scrap in the local authority area that issued it. If you work in multiple council areas, you’ll need a separate licence for each area.
KEY DETAILS ABOUT THE COLLECTOR’S LICENCE
WHO NEEDS THIS LICENCE
Anyone who collects scrap metal by traveling from place to place needs this license. This includes collectors on foot or in vehicles who buy scrap from businesses or homes. Even occasional collectors must be licensed.
WHERE THE LICENCE IS VALID
A collector’s licence works only in the local authority area where it’s issued. If you collect in multiple areas, you need separate licences for each council area. Plan your business territory with this in mind.
LICENCE RENEWAL
You must renew your licence every three years before it expires. The renewal process is similar to the initial application. Start this process at least 8 weeks before your licence expires.
STEP-BY-STEP APPLICATION PROCESS
IDENTIFY YOUR COUNCIL
First of all, determine which local authority areas you plan to collect in. Next, you’ll need to apply for a separate collector’s licence from each council where you intend to operate. Therefore, it’s essential to research each council’s specific requirements as they may differ slightly.
OBTAIN APPLICATION FORM
Subsequently, contact your local council or visit their website to obtain the collector’s licence application form. Nowadays, many councils offer online application systems to simplify the process; however, some may still require paper applications, so be prepared for either format.
PREPARE DOCUMENTATION
Gather all required documents, including proof of identity, address, basic DBS check, and details of your vehicle(s) used for collection.
PAY THE FEE
Application fees vary by local authority but typically range from £100 to £300 for a collector’s licence. Be prepared to pay this fee for each council area where you apply.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION
LEGAL OBLIGATIONS AFTER LICENSING
KEEP DETAILED RECORDS
As a licensed collector, keep records of all scrap metal received for 3 years. Include descriptions, weight, date and time of receipt, and the supplier’s name and address.
VERIFY IDENTITIES
Check and record ID details of anyone who supplies scrap metal to you. Take copies of ID documents where possible for your records.
PAYMENT RULES
NO CASH PAYMENTS
It’s illegal to pay for scrap metal in cash. You must make all payments by cheque or electronic transfer, even for small amounts. Keep records of each payment.
DISPLAY YOUR LICENCE
As a mobile collector, always carry your licence when collecting scrap metal. Be ready to show it to customers or enforcement officers when asked.
COMMON CHALLENGES
DELAYS IN PROCESSING
Applications usually take 4-8 weeks to process. Start your application early. Keep copies of all submitted documents. Follow up if you don’t hear back after 6 weeks.
LICENCE REFUSAL
Applications may be refused due to criminal records or if the council finds you unsuitable. If refused, you have 21 days to appeal to the Magistrates’ Court.
MULTIPLE LICENCES
If collecting in several council areas, create a system to track different expiry dates. Set up reminders so you don’t forget to renew any licences.
Getting a scrap metal collector’s licence is both a legal need and a commitment to ethical business. By following the rules, you help reduce metal theft while building a trusted business in the recycling sector. Your licence shows customers you run a legitimate, professional service.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
If collecting across multiple council areas, create a calendar system to track different application and renewal dates. Consider using digital reminders to avoid lapses.