Under Washington State law enforced at local facilities like Earthworks Recycling, sellers of non-ferrous scrap metal must be at least 18, provide a valid government photo ID with a current address, and receive cash only for the first $30, with the remaining balance paid by check.
Identification and Age Rules
- Photo ID: You must show a current, valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport).
- No Bad IDs: Expired, damaged, punched, or prison IDs are strictly rejected.
- Age Limit: Sellers must be 18 years of age or older.
- Contact Info: You must provide your current street address and phone number.
Payment and Transaction Limits
- Cash Limit: The first $30 of a non-ferrous transaction can be paid in cash.
- Check Payment: Any amount above $30 is paid via a non-transferable check.
- Aluminum Cans: Aluminum cans are exempt from the cash/check limit.
Restricted and Prohibited Items
- Burned Wire: Burned copper or insulated wire is not accepted without written proof of a legal burn or recovery from a fire.
- Beer Kegs: Kegs cannot be bought from private individuals.
- Frequency: Recycling centers cannot buy materials from the same customer more than once per day.