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California regulates scrap dealers under Business and Professions Code Sections 21600–21609 as Secondary Metals Recyclers (SMRs). The California Department of Justice (DOJ) administers registration; local law enforcement handles compliance.

ItemDetail
Issuing agencyCalifornia Department of Justice (DOJ)
Annual fee$200/location
Thumbprint requiredYes — from all sellers of nonferrous metals
Cat conv hold3 calendar days; check mailed to address; no in-person cash payment
Electronic reportingNo statewide requirement; check local county ordinance

California's catalytic converter law (BPC § 21608.5) is among the strictest nationally. See the full catalytic converter guide for complete California requirements.

Verify current requirements at oag.ca.gov.

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