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 3 years.

You can apply for the following licences:

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 only

You should post your application to:

Licensing, Legal Services, PO Box 634, Barnsley, S70 9GG

Upon receipt of your application a licensing officer will contact you over the phone for payment of the application fee. The fee is currently £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 only

You should post your application to:

Licensing, Legal Services, PO Box 634, Barnsley, S70 9GG

Upon receipt of your application a licensing officer will contact you over the phone for payment of the application fee. The fee is currently £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.