Motor salvage

If you are a motor salvage operator, you must be registered with your local authority.

 
Eligibility criteria

A person is a motor salvage operator if they:

• recover for reuse or sale, in whole or in part, salvageable parts from motor vehicles and sell or otherwise dispose of the rest of the vehicle
• buy written-off vehicles and repair and resale the same vehicle
• sell or buy motor vehicles that are to be subject to any of the two activities above.

 

Application evaluation process

Applications for registration must comply with any requirements set by the local authority and must be accompanied by a fee.

Applications will be refused if the local authority is not satisfied that the applicant is a fit and proper person to carry on business as a motor salvage operator. The local authority will take into account any relevant previous convictions. If an application or an application for a renewal is refused the local authority does not have to consider any other applications by the person for 3 years from the date of refusal.

A local authority may cancel a registration and does not have to consider any application for registration from the cancelled operator for 3 years from the date of the cancellation.

If a local authority intends to refuse an application or cancel a registration they must serve a notice on the applicant or operator. The notice must give details of what they are proposing to do, the reasons for it and the period during which the person may make representations. This period must not be less than 14 days and starts from the date of service of the notice.

A notice will be served detailing the decision of the local authority as to whether to grant an application, renew a registration or cancel a registration.

Notice of changes to registered information must be made to the local authority within 28 days of the change.

 

Apply

For more information and an application form, call 01766 771000.

 

Relevant legislation

The Motor Salvage Operators Regulations (external link)

 

Will tacit consent apply?

No. It is in the public interest that the authority must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from the local authority within a reasonable period, please contact it.

 

Failed application redress

Please contact your local authority in the first instance.  If an application is refused the applicant may appeal to the local Magistrates court. Applications must be made within 21 days of service of the local authority notice.

 

Licence holder redress

Please contact your local authority in the first instance.  If an application for renewal is refused or a registration is cancelled the operator may appeal to the local Magistrates court. Applications must be made within 21 days of service of the local authority notice.

 

Consumer complaint

We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by you - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, Citizens Advice will give you advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre.

 

Trade associations

British Metals Recycling Association (BMRA)

Car and Accessory Trader (CAT)

Motor Vehicle Dismantlers Association (MVDA)