​​Minnesota law requires scrap metal dealers to follow certain registration, training, record keeping, and reporting procedures. It also requires the Commissioner of Public Safety to make available the names and addresses of registered scrap metal dealers. View a list of scrap metal dealers.

Scrap metal dealer registration

Scrap metal dealers must register each year with the Commissioner of Public Safety and pay a $50 annual fee.  The Commissioner of Public Safety may cancel or deny the registration of dealers convicted of a felony violation for unlawful possession, purchase or acquisition of catalytic converters.

Scrap metal dealers can register by sending an email to scrap.metal@state.mn.us with the following information:

• Business name
• Business address
• Name of preferred contact
• County
• Fax number
• Email address
• Preferred method for receiving alerts (fax or email)

Reporting requirements

Scrap metal dealers must enter all required information for the purchase or acquisition of motor vehicles and the purchase or acquisition of used, detached catalytic converters into the LeadsOnline electronic database by the close of business each day. Scrap metal dealers must register their business at www.LeadsOnline.com and receive training on database use prior to submitting data.

Scrap metal dealers must display a sign of sufficient size, in a conspicuous place in the premises, which informs all patrons that transactions are reported to law enforcement daily.

Scrap metal training

Scrap metal dealers engaged in the purchase or acquisition of used, detached catalytic converters must ensure employees handling catalytic converter transactions are trained and familiar with the additional requirements for catalytic converters.

Training specific to the electronic database will be provided by LeadsOnline. 

View additional information about scrap metal reporting requirements on our frequently asked questions page.