The Scrap Metal Dealers' Act 1964 requires any individual or business dealing in scrap metal to be registered with a local authority. The dealer must register with each local authority where he or she stores scrap. If there is no store then the dealer should register with the authority where he or she resides.
Registration lasts for 3 years and needs to be renewed after that period. Any changes should be notified to the registering authority.
The Vehicles (Crime) Act 2001 and the Motor Salvage Operators Regulations 2003 provide a separate framework for the registration of motor salvage operators.
Vehicle crime is perceived as being one of the largest single categories for recorded crime, and the motor salvage regime is designed to make the disposal of stolen vehicles more difficult. Please refer to the Home Office web page under the Useful Web sites on the right hand side of the page for information about motor salvage operators.
The registrations are not mutually exclusive, and some businesses may require both. In addition, the following may be required:
The dealer must register with each local authority where he stores scrap. If there is no store then the dealer should register with the authority where he/she resides.
Registration lasts for 3 years and needs to be renewed after that period. Any changes should be notified to the registering authority.
How to apply:
You can apply for a licence or a change to a licence on-line at: Licences and regulations | UK Welcomes | Business Link
Will tacit consent apply?
No, it is in the public interest that the council must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from us within a reasonable period, please get in touch. If you have applied online through the UK Welcomes service you can do this through them. If you have applied in writing or need wish to contact the council via another method please use the “contact us” details on this page.
Failed application redress
Please contact Islington Council in the first instance.
Licence holder redress
Please contact Islington Council in the first instance.
Consumer complaint
We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader 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. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre.
Page Last Updated: 20 October 2010