What is a scrap metal dealer?
To be a scrap metal dealer, you need to register with your local authority.
A scrap metal dealer shall be classed as carrying on a business in the local authority area if any of the following apply:
- the dealer occupies a place as a scrap metal store in the area
- the dealer does not occupy a place as a scrap metal store but has a usual place of residence in the area
- the dealer does not occupy a place as a scrap metal store but occupies a place for business purposes
Applicants must provide the following:
- their full name
- the address of the dealer, or in the case of a company, their registered or principal office
- the address of each place occupied as a scrap metal store, if any
- if the business is carried on without a scrap metal store
- if the business is carried on without a scrap metal store but the applicant occupies a place for the purposes of business, and the address of such a place
The registered dealer must notify the local authority of any changes to these details or if they cease to be a scrap metal dealer.
Will tacit authorisation apply?
Yes, you should expect that the council will determine this application within 14 days from the date on which it receives your application.
The clock starts when the completed application is submitted along with all the required information and documents requested, including fee. If the local authority spots an error or omission in the application, it can be placed on hold and the clock starts from the beginning when the applicant either supplies a correction or all the information requested.
If your application can not be determined because the council needs more information, you will be notified, and the clock will stop until the outstanding information is supplied.
If the council has received objections to the application which means that it will have to be referred to a licensing panel, you will be notified in writing. The period will then be extended to the date on which your application is determined at hearing, and you will be notified of the outcome of the hearing not later than ten working days after the day of the hearing.
How do I apply?
Anyone trading as a scrap metal dealer who is not registered should do so by contacting Licensing Services or by downloading and completing the form below.
The link below takes you to an external website which processes these applications on behalf of St Edmundsbury Borough Council:
A scrap metal dealer who has no scrap metal to store (that is a dealer who buys from a supplier and transports scrap metal to his or her customers) must register with the local authority in whose area his or her business address is situated or if there is no business address the local authority in whose area he or she lives.
There is no provision in legislation to refuse a scrap metal dealer registration.
How much does it cost?
Registrations last for three years and must then be renewed. There is no registration fee involved.
Useful links
Contact details
Licensing Services
St Edmundsbury Borough Council
West Suffolk House
Western Way
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk IP33 3YU
Phone: 01284 757103
Email: licensing@stedsbc.gov.uk
