Pursuant to 9 V.S.A. § 3022
Special Rules for Catalytic Converters
A scrap metal processor shall not purchase more than one used and detached catalytic converter per day from any person, other than a motor vehicle recycler or motor vehicle repair shop.
A person, other than a motor vehicle recycler or motor vehicle repair shop, shall not transport simultaneously two or more used and detached catalytic converters unless: each catalytic converter is engraved or otherwise permanently marked with the vehicle identification number of the vehicle from which it was removed; and the person transporting the catalytic converter has in the person’s possession documentation demonstrating proof of lawful ownership as specified in 9 V.S.A. § 3022.
Documentation Required for Sale
A scrap metal processor may purchase nonferrous scrap, metal articles, proprietary articles, and railroad scrap, including catalytic converters, only if the scrap metal processor complies with all the following procedures:
(1) At the time of sale, the processor:
(A) requires the seller to provide a current government-issued photographic identification that indicates the seller’s full name, current address, and date of birth, and records in a permanent ledger the identification information of the seller, the time and date of the transaction, the license number of the seller’s vehicle, and a description of the items received from the seller; and
(B) requests and, collects:
(i) third-party documentation that establishes that the seller lawfully owns the items to be sold, such as a bill of sale, itemized receipt, or letter of authorization signed by the person from whom the seller purchased the item; or
(ii) a written affidavit of ownership that states that the seller lawfully owns the items to be sold.
The information collected by a scrap metal processor shall be retained for at least five years at the processor’s normal place of business or other readily accessible and secure location. On request, this information shall be made available to any law enforcement official or authorized security agent of a governmental entity who provides official credentials at the scrap metal processor’s business location during regular business hours.
Scrap Metal Processor Purchasing Report to the Department of Public Safety
If a seller of nonferrous scrap, metal articles, proprietary articles, and railroad scrap, including catalytic converters, does not provide a bill of sale, itemized receipt, or letter of authorization signed by the seller to the scrap metal processor who purchases the item(s), then the scrap metal processor must:
- Request and collect a written affidavit of ownership by the seller that states that the seller lawfully owns the items to be sold.
- Submit a report to the Department of Public Safety not later than the close of the following business day describing the item(s) purchased and the seller's identifying information.
- Hold the item(s) for at least 10 days following purchase.
Written Affidavit of Ownership
A written affidavit of ownership is available at this link.
Report to the Department of Public Safety
Submit a report to the Department of Public Safety: https://vicvsp.wufoo.com/forms/scrap-metal-processor-purchasing-report/
Proof of Ownership Frequently Asked Questions
- Where do I get a copy of my Proof of Ownership Document?
- Following successful submission, the information on the form will be uploaded to a database. A copy of the proof of ownership document can be requested by emailing karen.carr@vermont.gov.
- What legislation governs the requirement for proof of ownership?
- Title 9 Chapter 82
- Where can I find more information about proof of ownership?
- The Agency of Natural Resources has prepared a FAQ document relating to regulations of the sale of catalytic converters.
Contact Information:
Inquiries related to Proof of Ownership should be forwarded to karen.carr@vermont.gov.