If you wish to carry out business as a scrap metal dealer or motor salvage operator you must have a licence to trade.
Please note it is now an offence to pay cash for scrap metal.
There are two types of licence:
A site licence
A site licence allows you to trade as a scrap metal dealer at any site, or multiple sites, within Cardiff. If you also want to trade from a site in another local authority you will need to apply for a licence from them too.
A collector's licence
A collector's licence allows you to trade as a mobile collector and sell or dispose of metal within the Cardiff area. This includes the sale and disposal of salvageable parts from motor vehicles.
Separate collectors' licences are required for each of the council areas where collections take place.
How to apply
Before applying we recommend reading our Scrap metal guidance notes (PDF, 169 KB)
Apply by post:
Please complete the relevant application form and return it to us by post or email.
LicensingRoom 170ACounty HallAtlantic WharfCardiffCF10 4UW
Email: [email protected]
Along with the application form, you will need to include:
- A passport style photograph of every named person on the application
- The correct fee
- A 'Basic Disclosure' from Disclosure Scotland (dated within 3 months)
How much will the licence cost?
General licence fees and charges
We accept the following methods of payment:
- Debit card (by phone only - 029 20871651)
- Cheque (made payable to 'Cardiff Council')
- You can also pay via BACS: Sort code: 52-21-06Account number: 20408838 Address: Natwest, 96 Queen Street, Cardiff, CF10 2GR
What happens next?
All scrap metal dealer licences are subject to a 28 day consultation period. We will consult with the police and Natural Resources Wales
If we do not receive any representations and you do not possess any relevant convictions your licence will then be issued.
If we are minded to refuse your application you will be contacted and given the opportunity to make representations in respect of your application. The application will then be determined by the relevant Cabinet member.
The licence must be displayed at the site or on the mobile collector's vehicle where it can be clearly read by the public. Sellers must produce prescribed personal ID (photo ID) at the point of sale - the dealer must keep a record of the ID.
Further information
Licences are valid for 3 years and are then required to be renewed.
In order to carry on your business you may need to hold other environmental permits such as a waste carrier permit. Visit Natural Resources Wales for more information.
If you would like any help or advice please contact us
029 2087 1651
