Scrap metal
You need a licence to buy and sell scrap metal.
There are two types of scrap meal licence:
- site collectors licence, which allows you to buy and sell scrap metal from a fixed location within the council area
- collector’s licence, which allows you to travel within the council area to collect scrap metal. You may not take this metal back to a site that you run within the council area in order to sell it
How to apply
- complete the application form, keeping a copy of the completed form for your own records
- send the completed form and a basic criminal record check issued within the last month to the licensing team. Applications must be accompanied by the relevant fee, which can be paid online
Guidance
There are a number of regulations that scrap metal dealers must comply with. This includes keeping detailed records of scrap bought and sold, information on the identity of the purchaser/seller and other details. The Home Office have developed a supplementary guidance document which explains your responsibilities. Before making an application you should ensure that you will be able to comply with the requirements.
Suitability to hold a licence
We must be satisfied the applicant is a suitable person to carry out business as a scrap metal dealer. This includes:
- in the case of a partnership: each of the partners
- in the case of a company: each director, company secretary and shadow director
As part of the application process each applicant must provide a Basic Disclosure certificate with the application form. You can apply online for the Basic Disclosure certificate. A certificate with the results of the disclosure application will usually be issued within 28 days.
We also carry out checks with the Environment Agency and other local authorities if an applicant holds a registration with another Council.
Waste carriers licence
A licence under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 does not replace the waste carrier’s licence. To collect scrap metal you will be required to hold a licence issued by us and a Waste Carriers Licence issued by the Environment Agency.
Consultation
Once we receive your application and accompanying documents, there is a consultation period of 28 days in which we pass your application to the council’s planning department, the police, the Environment Agency and other partner bodies. These bodies have the opportunity to raise concerns with or object to your application.
What happens next?
If no representations are received, the application must be granted.
Issuing your licence
Following the end of the consultation period and once inspected (if required) we aim to issue your licence within 10 working days.
Duration of licence
Site and collectors licences last for 3 years. You must apply to renew your licence at least 6 weeks before it is due to expire.
Complaints
If you have a concern or complaint about a scrap metal dealer or you believe that an unlicensed dealer has removed your waste, please email licensing@cheltenham.gov.uk.