The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 came into force on 1st October 2013. A copy of the Act can be found below:
The Act repeals the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 1964 and consolidates scrap metal dealers & motor salvage operators under one licensing regime. Local Authorities will continue to act as the main regulator but the new Act gives Licensing Authorities more powers, including the power to refuse a license and powers to revoke licenses if the dealer is considered unsuitable. Both the Local Authority and the Police have been given powers to enter and inspect premises.
Summary of the Act
The Act defines a "scrap metal dealer" as a person who is for the time being carrying on a business as a scrap metal dealer, whether or not authorised by a licence.
It further states that "scrap metal" includes:
- any old, waste or discarded metal or metallic material, and
- any product, article or assembly which is made from or contains metal and is broken, worn out or regarded by its last holder as having reached the end of its useful life.
The following is not considered to be "scrap metal":
- gold,
- silver, and
- any alloy of which 2% or more by weight is attributable to gold or silver.
Home Office Guidance
The Home Office has provided some useful guidance to assist applicants and Licensing Authorities with the implementation of the new Act. This Guidance can be found here:
Scrap Metal Dealers - Home Office Guidance
