Scrap Metal

Councilmember and Public Safety Chair Andrew J. Ginther initiated a review and examination of local scrap metal industry practices in early 2007 as a result of the growing number of incidences of scrap metal theft in the community. With the rising price of scrap metal, thieves had begun to target homeowners, contractors and builders, utility providers, and businesses in an effort to secure product for resale to scrap metal dealers, who recycle the material. Favorite items for theft have included copper gutters, manhole covers, and car parts.

Ginther personally visited several local dealers and conducted a public hearing on the issue on March 26, 2007. After concluding that current regulation of businesses that deal in scrap metal had proven ineffective at detecting or preventing this illegal activity at the point at which stolen items are sold as scrap metal, Ginther took action. He established a working group that included representatives from the City Attorney’s Office, Columbus Police, the scrap metal industry, and Columbus neighborhoods to develop a solution. These discussions led to his sponsorship and Council’s enactment of an amendment to Columbus City Code designed to provide City prosecutors and Columbus police officers better tools to combat this illegal activity. Amendments include licensing requirements for dealers, improved record-keeping and retention period requirements, and inspection and better communication with Police to ensure compliance.

Ordinance 0441-2007: (Click to View Ordinance)