Scrap Metal

Scrap metal dealing or the running of a scrap metal business (including motor salvage operators) is controlled by the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013.

No person may carry on the business as a scrap metal dealer unless they are licensed to do so by their Local Authority. Since October 2013, cash cannot be used by a scrap metal dealer to buy scrap metal. It is an offence and there are no exemptions.

A scrap metal dealer’s licence lasts for three years and must be renewed on or before the expiry date, if the licence holder wishes to carry on as a scrap metal dealer.

There are two types of licence:

  1. site licence – for carrying on business at any site in the council’s area, which will be specified in the licence
  2. collector’s licence – for carrying on business as a mobile collector

How to apply

Download the Scrap Metal Dealing application form (PDF, 174KB, 6 pages)

return the completed application form to us

  • email: licensing@iow.gov.uk Payment can be taken over the phone via debit/credit card
  • post: Licensing Department, County Hall, High Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 1UD. Please include a cheque for the payment.

Fees and costs

A fee must be paid at the time an application is made.