Permitted waste sites in England and Wales now have to record the waste they receive on a government digital service. It’s called digital waste tracking, and it’s worth knowing how it works if you sell scrap to yards.
What the rules require
The Digital Waste Tracking Regulations 2026 came into force on 1 October 2026. Scotland follows in January 2027. Under them:
- Permitted sites that receive waste must report each load through the government’s “Report receipt of waste” service.
- Reports are due within two working days of the load arriving.
- Access costs a £26 annual charge.
- Penalties for not complying include a £1,000 fixed penalty, unlimited variable penalties and prosecution.
- Existing paperwork continues for now. Waste transfer notes and hazardous waste consignment notes are still submitted separately.
Who it covers, and who it doesn’t yet
The first phase covers permitted waste-receiving sites, which includes permitted metal recycling yards. Waste carriers, brokers and dealers come in a second phase. The Environment Agency has said that phase starts in private beta in autumn 2026, moves to public beta in spring 2027, and becomes mandatory from October 2027.
Yards that have relied on the T9 exemption will need permits when it’s withdrawn in April 2027 (see our earlier post on [the T9 exemption withdrawal]), so they’re likely to come under the same system.
What it means if you sell scrap
You aren’t directly covered yet. But a yard that has to log every load will want a clear picture of what’s coming in, so expect more questions about:
- What the material is
- Roughly how much of it there is
- Where it’s coming from
If you carry waste as part of your work, make sure your waste carrier registration is up to date.
This is general information, not legal advice. Check GOV.UK for the full rules.
Sources: Clyde & Co · Environment Agency · BMRA conference 2026
Get the latest scrap prices
Occasional price updates and practical selling tips. No daily noise.