New Ordinance Aims to Curb Scrap Metal Theft

The scrap dealers are required to obtain a city-issued “junk dealer” license issued by the Department of Excise and License.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Tighter rules on the buying and selling of metals including copper, brass, and aluminum are the goal of a new ordinance that two members of the Denver City Council have proposed. The ordinance is a component of the City's efforts to reduce the increase in cases of scrap metal theft.

The goal of the law put forth by City Council members Flor Alvidrez (District 7) and Darrell Watson (District 9) is to provide accountability and openness in the scrap metal trade. Catalytic converter thefts have decreased by 95% as a result of the 2022 catalytic converter ordinance, which is similar to this one.

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The regulation stipulates that vendors engaged in scrap metal trades must have legitimate identity documentation. The junk merchants must also keep thorough transaction records for a minimum of six months. The ordinance would also prohibit cash transactions and walk-up sales.

The scrap sellers must get a 'junk dealer' license from the Department of Excise and License, which is given by the city.

Watson pointed out that the new rules are not intended to cause any harm to individuals involved in legal scrap trade and that it would not be applicable to those trading in aluminum cans or other food-related goods.