New Law To Prevent Copper Theft Takes Effect

A new state law went into effect this week in an attempt the prevent the continued rash of copper thefts.

Any person intending to transport and sell any nonferrous metal, including copper and catalytic converters to a scrap metal dealer, must first obtain a free permit to transport and sell the metal from the count sheriff in the county where the seller resides, according to a new state law that went into effect Wednesday.

It is now unlawful for a person to transport more than 10 pounds of nonferrous metal. 

There are two types of permits available to the public: a one-year permit and a 48-hour permit.

The one-year permit must be obtained at the sheriff's office in the county. Permit-seekers must complete an application there.

For a 48-hour permit, a phone call to the sheriff's office will suffice.

In accordance with the new state law, any person or business intending to purchase copper or catalytic converters, must also obtain a permit to purchase. There is a $200 fee for the permit to purchase and it is renewable every two years.