do you need to have a license to go out collecting scrap metal in the uk?

Question

need to earn extra cash on days off so me and a mate were going to use our van and go out collecting scrap metal do we need a license?

Answer 1

As you may know, EU law has made it expensive to dispose of 'hazardous' items like old cars. There was a time you could get good money for you old car from the local scrap yard.. now most have been closed down by NIMBY's and the massive cost of Licences .. so the ones that are left now charge, typically £100, to take your old car.

This has led to people dumping old cars in the streets .. and some enterprising guys in our area have taken to driving around in a tow truck to collect these for 'recycling' (i.e. 'unofficial' (unlicensed) breaking up for spare parts sold at car boots, eaBay and backstreet garages) ..

Of course, if they don't get the owners permission, it's theft (however since the useless Council takes about 6 months to tow away scrap cars, most citizens regard this as a 'good service')

Answer 2

no you don't