SCRAP METAL - 1930.11

Scrap metal recycling is common and has a mature, extensive infrastructure. Depending on the quantity and quality of scrap metal generated, state agencies may receive revenue from recycling ferrous (sticks to a magnet, like steel & iron) and non- ferrous (aluminum, copper, brass, etc.) metal. Types of common scrap metal include: used wire, pipes, signs, posts, appliances, tin (steel) cans, empty aerosol and paint cans, rails and fencing, and some types of furniture. Agencies that generate significant amounts of scrap metal may choose to either sort out the most valuable types, or to commingle all types into one bin before sale to a scrap metal recycler.

Metals are among the most valuable recycled commodities and they should be protected from theft.

When it is recycled, scrap metal is generally exempt from hazardous waste regulations under both federal and state law. Scrap metal is not exempt from regulations under either federal or State Law when disposed, especially if it exhibits a characteristic of hazardous waste or is contaminated with a listed hazardous waste. Such situations may include metals covered with old, leaded paint, or motor parts covered with oil and grease. In these cases, metal may need to be managed as a hazardous waste under federal law 40 CFR 261.6(a)(3)(ii) and state law 22 CCR 66261.6(a)(3)(B).