Scrap Metal Dealer's Licence
Do you deal in scrap metal?
Under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, anyone buying or selling scrap metal in Hartlepool must be licensed by us.
You are considered a scrap metal dealer if you:
- run a business that buys or sells scrap metal (in any form), or
- operate as a motor salvage operator
If this applies to you, you must apply for a Scrap Metal Licence.
Application for a Scrap Metal Licence
Types of licence
You can only hold one type of licence at a time. Choose the one that best fits your business.
Site Licence
- for businesses operating from a fixed site (or multiple sites)
- lists each site and the appointed site manager. The site manager is an individual who exercises day-to-day control and management activities at the site.
- allows staff to collect scrap metal off-site (they must carry ID showing who they work for)
A Site Licence may be in the name of an individual, partnership or company.
Collector’s Licence
- for businesses collecting scrap metal door-to-door
- you need a separate licence for each council area you operate in
- you cannot store scrap metal under this licence, collected metal must be sold rather than stored. If metal is to be stored a site licence would be required instead.
- a licence must be displayed on any vehicle used for collecting
How to apply
To apply, send the completed application form to our Licensing Team along with:
- photographic ID (e.g. passport or photo driving licence)
- a recent utility bill (original or certified copy)
- a Basic Disclosure Certificate from Disclosure England
- the correct fee - please refer to our Fees and Charges
Licences are valid for 3 years.
It is a criminal offence to operate without a valid scrap metal licence. If you’re unsure which licence you need, contact our Licensing Team for advice.
What happens after you apply
We must check that you (and your site manager, if applicable) are fit and proper to hold a licence. This includes reviewing any criminal convictions.
If your application is approved:
- you will receive your licence
- our officers and the police may visit your premises to check compliance
- authorised council officers and the police will have the right to inspect records that you are required to keep if you hold a c ollector's licence
Other legal requirements
As a licensed scrap metal dealer, you must:
-
record details of all scrap metal received or disposed of, including:
- the type of metal
- the name and address of the person you bought it from or sold it to
- proof of the seller’s identity and address
-
Only accept payments by cheque or bank transfer – cash payments are not allowed
Important note
This page is a summary of your responsibilities under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013. You should read the full legislation or seek legal advice to ensure full compliance.