Scrap metal licences

Apply for a collector's licence

If you wish to collect scrap metal you will need a licence. 

The licence allows collectors to operate in the area of the issuing local authority.

It does not allow the collector to operate in any other local authority area, so you will need separate licences issued by the councils responsible for each of the areas you wish to operate in.

The licence does not authorise you to operate a site - to do so you will also need a site licence from the relevant local authority (i.e. where your site is based).

Licences last for three years and must be renewed - trading without a licence is a criminal offence.

Fees

  1 April 2023 From 1 April 2024
Collectors licence  £248 £260
Variation to licence   £20
Licence name change    £30

Tax check

From 4 April 2022 applicants will need to confirm they have completed a tax check and the 9 character Tax check code must be provided as part of the application process for renewal applications or new applications that have held a similar licence within the last 12 months. Complete a tax check for a taxi, private hire or scrap metal licence.

  • HMRC has powers to obtain information from Licensing Authorities using ‘Schedule 23 to Finance Act 2011 (Data Gathering Powers) and Schedule 36 to Finance Act 2008 (Information and Inspection Powers), grants HMRC powers to obtain relevant information from third parties. This includes licensing bodies being required to provide information about licence applicants.’ 

  • More guidance about tax registration obligations can be found from :

Apply for a scrap metal collector's licence

Make payment

Please make payment using our online form and email your completed form and documents to licensing@lichfielddc.gov.uk