Scrap metal dealers

About scrap metal licences

The dealing in scrap metal or the running of a scrap metal business is controlled by the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 1964.

No person may carry on the business of a scrap metal dealer in the Bury area unless they are registered to do so by us.

Your questions answered

Am I eligible for a scrap metal licence?

A scrap metal dealer shall be classed as carrying on a business in Bury if the dealer:

• occupies a place as a scrap metal store in the area;
• does not occupy a place as a scrap metal store but has a usual place of residence in the area; or
• does not occupy a place as a scrap metal store but occupies a place for business purposes.

What is the application process?

Applications must include the following information.

• Applicant's full name.
• The address of the dealer, or in the case of a company, their registered or principal office.
• The address of each place occupied as a scrap metal store, if any.
• If the business is carried on without a scrap metal store.
• If the business is carried on without a scrap metal store but the applicant occupies a place for the purposes of business, and the address of such a place.

You must notify us of any changes to these details or if you cease to be a scrap metal dealer.

How do I apply for a scrap metal dealer's licence?

You can now apply for an scrap metal dealer's licence online.

Please follow the link on the right-hand side of the webpage to Business Link's UK Welcomes website where you will be asked to register with the site.

How long will it take to receive a scrap metal dealer's licence?

Your application should be processed and your registration document issued with 14 days. If you have not heard from us within this time, please contact us.

What if I have been refused registration?

You should contact us in the first instance using the details at the bottom of the page.

What happens if you fail to comply?

If you do not have a licence or do not comply with any of the conditions, you may be prosecuted, fined up to £5000 and/or imprisoned for up to 3 months, or both. If found guilty under this Act, the defendant's licence may be cancelled and they may be disqualified for such length of time as the Court thinks fit.

What do I do if I have a complaint?

We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the service provider by you - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, Consumer Direct will give you advice or you can contact us directly. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre.

What happens if I fail to comply?

Any person found guilty of failing to register a scrap metal business, failure to notify the local authority of alterations in the appropriate particulars, or failure to keep the proper prescribed records shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding £2,500.

Any person found guilty of failing to notify a local authority that a business has ceased, found guilty of acquiring scrap metal from a person under the age of 16, or obstruction of an authorised inspector shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding £500.

• Subscribe to this page