The City of South Fulton Takes Action to Reduce Copper Theft

The City of South Fulton Takes Action to Reduce Copper Theft

City Council passes a new ordinance to address the theft of semi-precious metals

The City of South Fulton has a new ordinance regulating the recycling of semi-precious metals. The "Ordinance to Amend Chapter 5 (Business and Occupation Taxes) of Title 2 (Taxation) of the Code of Ordinances, City of South Fulton, Georgia; To Modify Provisions Affecting Recycling Businesses And Ensuring Record Keeping of Recycled Metals And Prohibiting The Receipt of Metal Items Altered From Their Original State" passed with a council vote of 6-0 on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at the City Council meeting.

Sponsored by Councilwoman Helen Z. Willis (District 3), the ordinance aims to help curb the theft of copper, catalytic converters, and the like. The ordinance puts the burden on the recycler to collect enough identifying information from the seller that should the items be found to be stolen, police will be able to quickly identify and track down the thief and any accomplices.

"In the City of South Fulton, when we see a problem, we take action," said Councilwoman Willis. "This is yet another way that the City of South Fulton is doing our utmost to protect our residents and local businesses, and mitigate copper theft in our communities."

Notice will be sent out to all recycling businesses in the City of South Fulton notifying them of the new ordinance and its requirements.