Non-Ferrous Metals

Nonferrous Metal Permits:
S. C. State Law (16-11-523) requires an individual to have a permit in order to transport or sell any amount of nonferrous metal.  Nonferrous metals are metals not containing significant quantities of iron or steel.  They include copper wire, copper clad steel wire, copper pipe, copper bars, copper sheeting and aluminum; a product that is a mixture of aluminum and copper; catalytic converters; and stainless steel beer kegs or containers.

To obtain an annual permit, free of charge, appear in person at the Sheriff’s Office located at 4900 Old Buncombe Rd, Greenville SC.  Permits will be issued Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.   Office will be closed on county holidays.  The following must be presented at time of application: Valid Driver’s License, state-issued ID, or military ID and current Vehicle Registration.

To obtain a 48-hour permit, free of charge, call 864-371-3600 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.   A person must have a valid Driver’s License, state-issued ID, or military ID and Vehicle Registration information.  A person is allowed only two 48-hour nonferrous metal permits within a twelve-month period.

Please note the following regarding Nonferrous Metal Permits: 
•    Permits are issued by the Sheriff’s Office in the county in which the individual resides.

•    Permits for Greenville County residents are issued only at the Sheriff’s Office Northern Area Command located at 4900 Old Buncombe Road, Greenville SC.

•    If vehicle is not registered in the name of the permit applicant, the owner of vehicle must also appear in person along with the applicant and present valid driver’s license and vehicle registration giving authorization for permit applicant to use vehicle to transport and sell nonferrous metal.

•    Permits are non-transferrable - meaning it cannot be transferred between people.

•    No permit is required to recycle aluminum cans.