In order to run a scrap metal business, you must have a scrap metal licence.
There are two categories of licence:
- Site licence: this may be for multiple sites within the Bath and North East Somerset area
- Collector's licence: you will need a separate licence from each Council in whose area you wish to collect
Before you apply
You need to read and understand the requirements set out on this page before you submit an application for a licence. We cannot proceed with your application unless you give us all the information we need.
You must provide a DBS basic disclosure as part of the application process.
Eligibility
We can only issue a licence to people we deem suitable. We will take into account any previous criminal offences or enforcement action when deciding whether to grant a licence.
Fees and prices
The table below shows the fees and charges for scrap metal licences:
| Fee | Price |
|---|---|
| Application fee (new and renewal) | £187 |
| Annual maintenance fee | £262 |
| Variation fee | £187 |
| Change of details | £37 |
Duration
We will grant licences for three years, unless we state otherwise.
How to apply
You can submit an application using our online form:
Apply for a scrap metal licence
Further information
Select a topic below to find out more about scrap metal licence.
We will consult with agencies such as the Police, British Transport Police, the Environment Agency and other departments in the council once you have submitted your application.
If we refuse to grant a licence, you can make a written appeal or appeal in person.
We aim to determine your application within 28 days.
Tacit consent does not apply.
If you want to appeal a permit rejection, please contact us by email at licensing@bathnes.gov.uk
It is a criminal offence for scrap metal dealers to pay for scrap metal in cash. Dealers must make payments electronically or by cheque.
The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 also increases the fines available for key offences under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 1964 so that the most serious offences can result in fines of £5,000.
The act also revises the powers of the Police so that Police Officers can enter by warrant any place to which admission is reasonably required to ascertain whether the prohibition on cash payments is being complied with.
If you want to make a complaint about a business operating without a scrap metal licence, please report this to us using our online form.
Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012
We have made the information on these web pages as comprehensive as possible. However, in attempting to simplify the law, certain requirements have been omitted. Full details of what you must do are in the relevant legislation.
Laws can and do change. We must advise that only the Courts can give an authoritative opinion on statute law.