If you wish to operate as a scrap metal dealer, operate a scrap metal site or trade as a motor salvage operator in the Craven District you need a licence from us.
You do not need a licence if scrap metal is ancillary to your main trade for example you are a plumber, electrician or mechanic.
Scrap metal includes steel, iron, copper, brass and aluminium. You do not need a scrap metal dealer’s licence for trading in precious metals such as gold or silver.
Scrap metal dealers must keep records from whom and what they are collecting. They cannot buy metal for cash.
Scrap metal dealers may also require planning permission and a waste carrier’s licence.
We can refuse a scrap metal dealer’s licence for example if the licence holder is convicted of a relevant offence for example the theft of metal.
Types of licence
There are two types of scrap metal dealer’s licences:
- Site licences
- Collector’s licences
When granted each licence will last for 3 years.
A’ site’ licence authorises the holder to carry on business at any site in the council’s area identified in the licence. Anyone who collects from pre-arranged appointments only would need a site licence.
A ‘collector’ is anyone who collects from door-to-door like the traditional rag and bone man.
A collector’s licence from Craven District Council only permits collecting in Craven. If you wish to operate as a collector in Craven you must have a licence from Craven District Council. If you wish to collect outside Craven you will need a licence from each of the local authorities in whose area you are collecting.
When collecting, the collector’s licence must be displayed in the vehicle being used for collecting.
Fees
Site Licences
Application fee for a new licence/renewal - £420
Minor variation on existing licence - £75
Collectors
Application fee for a new licence/renewal of licence - £200
Minor variation on existing licence - £75
A minor variation means a change in home address or name. Licences are NOT transferable and proof of name change will be required before a variation is issued.
Apply
To apply for a new licence or to renew your current licence you must submit:
- Application for a Scrap Metal Dealers Licence
- Help with completing your application for a Scrap Metal Dealer's Licence
Please send your application to: Environmental Health, Craven District Council, 1 Belle Vue Square, Broughton Road, Skipton, North Yorkshire BD23 1FJ.
Licensing process
Craven District Council can only issue a licence to a suitable person. You application may be refused if you have been convicted of a relevant offences for example the theft of metal.
The Council will consult on your application with the Police, the Environment Agency and the other local authorities in the area. Sites will be inspected.
The Council aims to complete applications within 40 days where there are no adverse comments.
Successful applicants for a Collector’s Licence will be asked to provide two passport size pictures and to produce either a DVLA Driving licence photo card or passport as proof of identity before the licence is issued.
Scrap Metal Dealers may also require planning permission and a Waste Carrier’s Licence.
The Council can refuse, revoke or suspend a Scrap Metal Dealer’s Licence for example if the licence holder is convicted of a relevant offence such as the theft of metal.
Licence holders must inform the Council of changes of name or address.
Scrap Metal Public Register
The Environment Agency keeps a register of all Scrap Metal Dealers Licences.