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Scrap metal dealer licence
Find out about the types of licences available, licence requirements, fees, how to apply and what to do if your circumstances change or you need to appeal.
Scrap metal dealer licensing
If you buy or sell scrap metal even if it’s just part of your business you need a licence under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013.
You’re considered a scrap metal dealer if you:
- Buy or sell scrap metal, even if you don’t change its form.
- Work as a motor salvage operator (e.g. breaking vehicles for parts or repairing written-off vehicles for resale).
Types of licences
There are two types of licence:
- Site Licence – lets you operate from a fixed location within the council area.
- Collector’s Licence – lets you travel around the council area to collect scrap metal. You cannot use a site in the same area to sell the collected metal.
Tax check requirement
From 4 April 2022, you must complete a tax check with HMRC if you are:
- Renewing a licence
- Reapplying for a licence that expired less than a year ago
- Applying for the same type of licence you hold with another council
You’ll need:
- A Government Gateway ID and password
- To complete the check yourself (agents can’t do it for you)
- A tax check code to include with your application
If you’re applying for a licence for the first time, you don’t need a tax check but you must confirm you’ve read HMRC’s guidance on tax registration.
Licence fees
How to apply
You can apply online
No. If you don’t hear back within a reasonable time, please contact the council.
Appeals
- Contact us to appeal
Licensing
Licensing
Contact us
Email
Address
Address
Licensing
Norwich City Council
City Hall
St Peters Street
Norwich
NR2 1NH
United Kingdom
