Scrap Metal

Scrap Metal Compliance – Harrogate UK (Extended)

All scrap metal dealers operating in Harrogate, Knaresborough, and Ripon must comply fully with UK legislation designed to prevent metal theft, protect legitimate businesses, and ensure traceability.

• Licence Required – Dealers must hold a valid Scrap Metal Dealer Licence issued by their local council. This applies to both fixed scrapyards and mobile collectors. Trading without a licence is a criminal offence.

• No Cash Payments – Cash payments for scrap metal are illegal under UK law. All transactions must be paid via bank transfer, cheque, or another fully traceable method.

• ID Required – Sellers must provide photo identification (such as a passport or driving licence) along with proof of address before any metal can be accepted.

• Records Kept – Dealers are legally required to keep detailed records of every transaction, including seller details, metal type, weight, date and time, vehicle registration (where applicable), and the method of payment. Records must be retained for inspection.

• Vehicles – End-of-life vehicles must only be processed by an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF). A Certificate of Destruction (CoD) must be issued, and vehicles must be properly de-polluted before dismantling.

• Enforcement – Local councils and police have the power to inspect premises, examine records, seize suspected stolen metal, suspend or revoke licences, and issue unlimited fines or prison sentences for serious breaches.

Always use a licensed scrap metal dealer, provide valid identification, and never accept or offer cash for scrap metal transactions.