What is an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) and why must I use one?

If you’re planning to scrap your vehicle, it’s vital to understand what an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) is — and why UK law requires you to use one. At blackburnscrapyard.co.uk, we make sure every car we handle goes through an approved ATF to protect you legally, ensure environmental safety, and guarantee that your paperwork is in order. Here's everything you need to know.

What is an Authorised Treatment Facility?

An Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) is a government-licensed scrapyard that is legally approved to handle end-of-life vehicles (ELVs). These facilities are inspected and certified by the Environment Agency or SEPA and follow strict rules under the UK’s End-of-Life Vehicles (ELV) Directive.

ATFs are licensed by the Environment Agency to process scrap vehicles.

They are legally permitted to de-pollute and dismantle vehicles.

Only ATFs can issue a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) — official proof your vehicle has been legally scrapped.

ATFs follow strict environmental rules for fluid disposal, battery removal, and safe recycling.

Using an ATF protects you from fines, fraud, or being held liable for a vehicle you no longer own.

Without going through an ATF, your car is considered illegally scrapped — and you could face consequences if it’s dumped, resold, or used in a crime.

Why You Must Use an ATF by Law

UK law makes it a legal requirement to use an Authorised Treatment Facility when scrapping a car. This is enforced under the End-of-Life Vehicles Regulations and monitored by the DVLA and Environment Agency. The legislation exists to ensure:

Hazardous materials like oils, coolants, and brake fluids are disposed of safely.

Vehicle parts are recycled responsibly — in line with sustainability targets.

Scrapped cars are removed from the DVLA register properly using a Certificate of Destruction (CoD).

Unscrupulous traders or backstreet dealers don’t operate outside the law.

By choosing a registered ATF, you're protected from liability and help ensure your old vehicle is handled responsibly — both legally and environmentally.

Step-by-Step: What Happens at an ATF?

Here’s how the ATF process works once you’ve chosen a licensed scrapyard (like through us at blackburnscrapyard.co.uk):

1. Find a Licensed ATF: Use the GOV.UK directory or contact us to arrange a verified collector.

2. Deliver or Collect: Bring your car to the ATF, or arrange free collection through our service.

3. Vehicle is De-polluted: The ATF removes fluids, tyres, batteries, and hazardous parts safely.

4. Certificate of Destruction: Once scrapped, a CoD is issued to officially close the DVLA record.

5. DVLA Updated: The ATF electronically informs the DVLA, so you're no longer the registered keeper.

This process ensures you won’t be liable for tax, insurance, or future misuse of the vehicle.

What Happens if You Don't Use an ATF?

Failing to scrap your car through an ATF can lead to serious consequences. You may think you’ve done your part by handing it over, but if the buyer isn’t a licensed ATF, it could come back to haunt you.

You could still be legally considered the registered keeper.

The vehicle might be dumped or sold on illegally.

You may receive fines, DVLA warnings, or be pursued for tax arrears.

You won't receive a Certificate of Destruction — leaving your legal status unresolved.

Protect yourself by choosing a legitimate ATF from the outset.

Trusted ATF Scrapping with blackburnscrapyard.co.uk

At blackburnscrapyard.co.uk, we work exclusively with licensed ATFs across Lancashire. Whether you’re scrapping a car, van, or MOT failure, we guarantee full legal compliance and fast, friendly service.

DVLA-registered Authorised Treatment Facilities only

We handle the CoD and DVLA paperwork for you

Free collection in Blackburn and surrounding areas

Prompt payment via secure bank transfer

Scrapping your car shouldn’t be a hassle — and with us, it isn’t. Get a fast quote today and make sure your car is scrapped the right way.

Useful Resources

Still unsure? Get in touch with us and we’ll walk you through the process. Scrapping your car with a licensed ATF has never been safer or easier.

Legal Context

The End-of-Life Vehicles (ELV) Directive requires scrapping at ATFs, which are licensed by the Environment Agency. Only ATFs meet the standards for de-pollution and can provide DVLA documentation (CoD).

Why This Matters

If you don’t use an ATF, your car might be handled illegally, leaving you liable for any environmental harm or unpaid fines. An ATF ensures proper paperwork so you’re not still recorded as the keeper.

Quick Step-by-Step Summary

  • Find licensed ATF (e.g., via DVLA site)
  • Take car to ATF (or arrange pickup)
  • ATF processes vehicle (fluid removal, recycling)
  • ATF issues CoD
  • DVLA records updated.

Sources & References

  • GOV.UK ATF guidance
  • Environment Agency guidelines
  • Scrap Car Network blog

Helpful External Links

  • GOV.UK – Find a vehicle scrapyard (lists ATFs)
  • ScrapCarComparison – Explainer on ATFs