How to apply for a scrap metal licence

How to apply for a site licence and a collector licence, evidence you need to submit and fees.

There are 2 types of licence:

  • a site licence
  • a mobile collector licence

You can hold either a site licence or a collector’s licence for Woking borough area, but not both.  

Site licences

A site licence:

  • authorises you to carry on business at a specific site
  • must be displayed to your customers
  • allows you to transport scrap metal to and from your site from any local authority area
  • does not allow you to collect scrap metal door to door

Collector licences

A mobile collector is someone who deals in scrap metal but does not store collected metal on site. 

A collector licence:

  • authorises you to collect scrap door to door within the Woking borough
  • covers employees but not self-employed collectors working for you

Each licence lasts for 3 years. It does not cover other local authority areas. 

How to apply

Scrap metal site and mobile collector licence application form (PDF, 56.16 KB)

Documents required

You must submit a Disclosure Baring Certificate – GOV.UK. This certificate must be dated within 3 months of the application date.

Anyone involved in a company as a director, partner or company secretary must also supply certificate.

If you apply for a collector licence, you must also submit a passport style photograph.

Licence fees

Scrap metal licence fees
Type of licence Fee
Site licence £556
Mobile collector licence £358

Public register

There is a public register of scrap metal dealers on the Environment Agency website.

See register of scrap metal dealers – Environment Agency

Environment Agency permits and licences

If you transport scrap metal and/or deal with scrap vehicles or vehicle parts, you will most likely need a licence or permit from the Environment Agency.

Go to waste and recycling – GOV.UK.