Scrap metal dealer licences

Dealing in scrap metal, or the running of a scrap metal business, is controlled by the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013. If you're a scrap metal dealer or motor salvage operator you must have a licence to trade.

You can’t hold a site licence and a collector’s licence in the same area, but you can apply for a site licence in one authority and a collector’s licence in another. Both licences are for a fixed period of three years.

You can apply for the licences below.

Site licence

A site licence allows you to trade as a scrap metal dealer at any site, or multiple sites. If you want to trade in another area you’ll also need to apply for a licence with the local authority covering that area.

When you apply you should provide:

  • a completed application form
  • a basic DBS certificate dated within the last three months
  • a site plan
  • evidence of planning approval
  • proof of your identity
  • MOT and insurance of any vehicles (if applicable)

Please note, all documents must be originals or certified copies.

You should post your application to: Licensing, Legal Services, PO Box 634, Barnsley, S70 9GG.

When we receive your application a licensing officer will contact you over the phone for payment of the application fee. The fee is £380.

Collector’s licence

A collector’s licence allows you to trade as a mobile collector and sell or dispose of metal in Barnsley. This includes the sale and disposal of motor parts.

When you apply you should provide:

  • a completed application form
  • a basic DBS certificate dated within the last three months
  • proof of your identity
  • MOT and insurance of all vehicles

Please note, all documents must be originals or certified copies.

You should post your application to: Licensing, Legal Services, PO Box 634, Barnsley, S70 9GG.

When we receive your application a licensing officer will contact you over the phone for payment of the application fee. The fee is £180.

Extra information

Copies can be certified by any one of the following:

  • bank or building society official
  • councillor
  • dentist
  • police officer
  • solicitor
  • teacher or lecturer

We will return all original documents to you.