Scrap Metals - Frequently Asked Questions

The difference is the composition of the metals. Generally, non-ferrous metals are non-magnetic while ferrous metals are magnetic. Some examples of non-ferrous metals include brass, aluminum. lead, and stainless steel. copper,

Effective December 1, 2008, and adopted from AB 844 under California’s Business and Profession Code 21600-21610, customers (sellers) and scrap metal dealers and recyclers (buyers) will be required to provide the following for all ferrous and non-ferrous purchases:

• Written record for each material purchase 
• Vehicle driver’s license number with state of issuance
• Vehicle license number with state of issuance
• Name of seller
• Address of seller
• Description of material, including type and quantity
• A statement showing that the seller of the material and it’s owner, or a statement showing that the seller has obtained permission to sell the material from its owner.

For all non-ferrous material purchases, payments must be made as follows:

• Check mailed to seller only at the address on the valid ID
• Cash may be collected on the third business day after the sale
• A photograph or video of the seller is required
• A thumbprint of the seller is required
• All records will be kept for 2 years
• All information will be submitted to local law enforcement as requested
• All copper and brass transactions are subject to the 3-business day hold

Payment rules are not applicable to transactions under $20 if the primary purpose of the transaction is the redemption of CRV containers.

Business transactions in which the recycler has the following information:

• Name, physical address, and business telephone number of the seller
• The business license of the seller’s business
• A copy of the valid driver’s license of the person delivering the material for the seller