ReMA Metal Theft Laws - Material Hold Requirements

A "hold" provision in state statute can mean various things depending upon the context within the metal theft law. It is important to understand the distinctions because there are very different legal implications. In these reports, a "hold" refers to holding periods on purchased materials during which the material may not be processed. However, when a "hold" is imposed can differ. A state might require an automatic holding period on all material purchased by a recycler, or that a recycler hold material after receiving notice from law enforcement identifying the material as potentially lost or stolen property. This report provides the conditions triggering hold requirements on certain materials, the time period for the hold, and information on whether the recycler must tag the materials. To build a report, just select the states you'd like to review from the list below. This information can also be included in a Custom Report by selecting the following from the General category:

What Is Included In This Report

  • Tag and Hold
  • Automatic Hold
  • Hold By Request

This report can be viewed online or downloaded as a PDF or as a CSV file (Excel or other database).


Please Note: This database is not intended to serve as legal advice; please consult an attorney or legal advisor regarding the application of the laws and any regulations to specific situations you may encounter. This database does not cover vehicle detitling/dismantling laws, scrap yard / junk yard zoning and screening requirements, laws on the purchase and processing of precious metals and jewelry, such as gold, silver, and platinum, or secondhand materials laws.


Select Your States

















Have Questions?

Justin Short
Manager, Gov't Relations
JShort@isri.org
(202) 662-8508

Abby Blocker
VP of State & Local Government Affairs
ablocker@isri.org
(202) 662-8511