Rules & Requirements

Buying and selling scrap metal in Texas is regulated by the state (Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1956). These rules protect honest sellers and help keep stolen metal off the market. Here's what to know before your visit — if you're ever unsure about a load, just call us first.

Valid Photo ID — Every Visit

Every seller must present a current, government-issued photo ID (driver's license or state ID). As required by Texas law, we record your ID and photograph the seller, the material, and your vehicle and license plate. A legible thumbprint is required unless you present a valid Cash Transaction Card. Providing false identification or false information to a metal dealer is a criminal offense under state law.

You Must Be 18 or Older

You must be at least 18 years old with valid ID to sell scrap metal in Texas.

Proof of Ownership for Regulated Items

Certain "regulated" materials require written proof that you own them or have the right to sell them — a title, an invoice, a job or service agreement, or a signed statement of ownership. These include:

• Insulated communication, transmission, and service wire or cable
• Manhole covers and drain grates
• Guardrails and street, traffic, or road signs
• Fire hydrants and backflow devices
• Metal cylinders made to hold compressed air, gas, or liquid
• Central A/C condenser and evaporator coils
• Unused rebar, safes, and historical or cemetery markers

We cannot purchase these items without proper documentation.

Metal Beer Kegs

By law, we cannot buy metal beer kegs — damaged or not — from anyone other than the brewer or its authorized representative.

Prohibited & Hazardous Items

You may not sell any appliance or scrap metal that contains a lead-acid battery, a fuel tank that has not been completely drained, or PCB capacitors without prior written acknowledgment. We also cannot accept sealed or pressurized containers and cylinders (unless cut open and empty), or material that is hazardous or contaminated.

Prepare Your Load — Earn the Best Price

• Drain all fuel, oil, and fluids, and remove fuel tanks.
• Separate your metals by type when you can — clean, sorted material earns the highest rate.
• Remove non-metal attachments (wood, plastic, concrete, insulation) where possible.

Yard Safety

• Closed-toe shoes are required; please follow all posted signs and staff directions.
• Stay in the customer area unless escorted, and drive slowly in the yard.
• Children must stay with an adult, and pets should remain in your vehicle.

We Reserve the Right to Refuse

We may decline any material we believe is stolen or improperly documented, and we cooperate fully with law enforcement on suspicious transactions.

These rules summarize key Texas requirements and are subject to change. Have a question about a specific load? Call us at (972) 221-7442 before you load up — our friendly staff will help you every step of the way.