Scrap metal and salvage

Scrap metal dealers - apply online

 Apply for registration as a scrap metal dealer 

Licence summary

The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 replaced previous registration requirements for scrap metal dealers and motor salvage operators from 1 October 2013 and came into  force on Sunday 1 December 2013.

Eligibility Criteria

Please find our fees here:  Scrap metal dealer fees.

Under the Act we must not issue a licence unless we are satisfied that the applicant is a suitable person to carry on a business as a scrap metal dealer. You will therefore need to submit a basic criminal record disclosure form as part of the application process. Basic Disclosure certificates can be obtained from Disclosure Scotland.

To apply please download the application form and once completed please send to Licensing Team, Epsom and Ewell Borough Council, Town Hall, The Parade, Epsom, Surrey. KT18 5BY, with the relevant payment and completed Disclosure Scotland.

Please note the new Scrap Metal Dealers 2013 licences do not replace the Waste Carrier's Licence. To deal in and collect scrap in Epsom and Ewell you will therefore be required to hold a licence issued by us for scrap metal and also a Waste Carriers Licence that is issued by the Environment Agency.

In summary, the new legislation provides the following:

  • Scrap metal dealers and motor salvage operators will both be scrap metal dealers
  • An enhanced licence application process, including consultation with the police and Environment Agency. There will be two categories of licence:
    • A site licence (can be for multiple sites within the council's area).
    • A collector’s licence (separate licences will be required for each council area where collections take place)
  • Power for councils to refuse or revoke licence applications or impose conditions where appropriate, subject to the right to make representations before refusal, revocation or the imposition of conditions (these are limited to times of operation and a requirement that metal will be kept in its original form for minimum of 72 hours)
  • The Licence to be displayed at site or on collector's vehicle where it can be read by the public.

Sellers must produce personal ID at the point of sale .
No cash purchases of scrap metal in any circumstances.
Police and councils will have powers to inspect sites.
Central on-line register of licences held by the Environment Agency.
Closure Notice (from police or councils) for unlicensed sites; Closure Orders (via Magistrates’ Court) if still used as such after seven days.
There is Statutory Guidance to accompany the legislation

Will Tacit Consent Apply?
Yes. This means that you will be able to act as though your application is granted if you have not heard from the Local Authority by the end of the target completion period.

Trade Associations

British Metals Recycling Association (BMRA)
International Aluminum Institute (IAI)
International Lead Association (ILA)
Metal Bulletin