Scrap Metal
See locations for this item (below)

Scrap metal can be divided into 2 major metal types: ferrous and non-ferrous.  Ferrous metals are iron and steel.  Ferrous metals are attracted to a magnet. 

Non-ferrous metals are aluminum, brass, copper, gold, lead, magnesium, mercury, nickel, platinum, silver, stainless steel and tin.  Non-ferrous metals are not attracted to a magnet, except some types of stainless steel. 

Scrap Metal – No Redemption
Scrap metal can be recycled by taking it to a municipal drop-off center or to your spring/fall recycling day.  Redemption will not be paid for the metal, but the metal will be recycled.  For information on recycling opportunities for scrap metal centers see the Residential Recycling Opportunities..

Preparation:
Remove as much of the non-metal items such as, rubber wheels, plastic parts, or wooden handles as possible.  Remove all liquids (including oil and gasoline) and dispose of properly.

Why Recycle Scrap Metal? 

• For every ton of steel recycled, 2,500 pounds of iron ore, 1,400 pounds of coal and 120 pounds of limestone are conserved. 
• The energy saved by recycling 1 ton of aluminum equals the amount of electricity used by a typical home in 10 years.

Scrap Metal – Redemption
All locations listed below offer redemption for the following aluminum items: cans, siding, sheeting, garage and storm doors, wheels, and auto parts.  Brass, copper, and wires, both insulated and non-insulated, are also accepted for redemption.  Additional items accepted for redemption are listed specific to each location.  Call to determine the preparation and quantities accepted for redemption.

Preparation:
To receive the highest price for your scrap metal, it is important to remove all non-metal items such as, rubber wheels, plastic parts, or wooden handles.  It is also best to separate the metals, i.e. copper from brass, brass from aluminum, etc.  Remove all liquids (including oil and gasoline) and dispose of properly.

What is scrap metal made into?
Steel is the number one recycled metal in the United States; 70 million tons of scrap steel is generated each year.  Some common items made from steel (ferrous metal) are appliances, automobiles, bicycles, rebar, steel siding and toys.  All steel products contain at least 25% recycled steel, with some products containing 100% recycled content depending on the type of steel mill.   Aluminum is the most widely recycled non-ferrous metal.  Some common items made from aluminum are beverage cans, lawn furniture tubing, storm doors, window frames, siding, gutters, and downspouts.

Anoka County staff obtained information for this resource by researching various directories, along with telephone verification. It is not an endorsement of the businesses listed, nor does it imply that the businesses are in compliance with applicable laws. Any omissions or inaccuracies are unintentional. For additional listings, we recommend the local telephone directory. ALWAYS CALL FIRST TO VERIFY INFORMATION BECAUSE POLICIES FREQUENTLY CHANGE.
 
This resource is intended for households only. The information does not pertain to wastes from businesses or organizations.

 
For more information about a location, including a list of all materials accepted at the location, click on the name.