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

View licence fees

How to apply

You can apply online

If you don’t hear back within a reasonable time, please contact the council.

Need more information?

Get in touch with the Licensing team

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