Your Guide to WA’s Vehicle Scrappage & Recycling Regulations

There comes a time when every vehicle reaches the end of the road. Whether it’s been written off, broken beyond repair, or simply isn’t worth fixing, scrapping your car is often the best — and sometimes only — option.

But before you call in the tow truck, it’s important to understand the legal and environmental rules around vehicle scrappage in Western Australia. From ownership paperwork to eco-friendly disposal, WA has clear regulations to make sure cars are scrapped safely, responsibly, and legally.

At Car Removal Perth, we specialize in cash for car removal and eco-conscious vehicle recycling. We make it easy, fast, and 100% compliant — so you don’t have to stress about the legal bits.

 Got a car to scrap? Call us on 0412 119 053 — we’ll pay you top dollar and handle everything from pickup to paperwork.

What Is Vehicle Scrappage in WA?

Scrapping a car — also known as vehicle disposal or deregistration — means permanently removing a vehicle from use. In WA, it’s not as simple as dumping it at the tip or pushing it off to a paddock. There are strict rules in place to ensure this process protects both the environment and the community.

Vehicles are usually scrapped when:

• They’re written off after an accident

• They’re too old or damaged to repair

• They’ve failed a roadworthy or inspection

• The cost of repairs outweighs the car’s value

This is where Car Removal Perth steps in. We provide a legal, transparent, and environmentally friendly way to remove and recycle your vehicle — all while putting cash in your hand.

Legal Requirements for Scrapping a Car in WA

If you’re getting ready to scrap your car, there are a few things you need to know to stay on the right side of WA laws.

1. Proof of Ownership

Before a vehicle can be scrapped, you’ll need to prove you’re the legal owner. This is usually done by showing photo ID and matching the details on the registration papers (if available). If you’ve lost your rego papers — don’t stress. At Car Removal Perth, we’ll help verify ownership and sort out the details.

2. Licence Plate Return or Notification

You’ll need to either:

• Remove your licence plates and return them to a Department of Transport (DoT) centre, OR

• Notify the DoT that the vehicle has been destroyed/scrapped (online or via a form)

If you don’t remove or notify, you could still be liable for that vehicle (e.g., tolls or fines). We’ll guide you through this step when you book a removal with us.

3. Cancellation of Registration

Once your car is scrapped, the rego should be cancelled. This can be done via:

• A Notification of Disposal (Form MR9)

• Logging in to DOTDirect (WA DoT online system)

We’ll walk you through this process when we pick up your car — no headaches, no confusion.

WA Environmental Regulations for Vehicle Recycling

In Western Australia, it’s illegal to dump or dismantle vehicles improperly. There are strict rules on how cars must be recycled to protect the environment from toxic waste and illegal dumping.

Here’s what’s required:

Safe Disposal of Fluids

Cars contain dangerous fluids — oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and fuel. These must be drained and disposed of according to WA environmental laws. At Car Removal Perth, we only work with EPA-compliant facilities that safely handle and recycle fluids.

Proper Handling of Tyres, Batteries & Airbags

These components can pose environmental risks if left to rot or leak:

• Tyres are recycled or processed into road base materials

• Batteries are sent to authorised battery recycling plants

• Airbags are safely removed before metal shredding

Special Note on Asbestos (Old Cars)

Some older cars (especially pre-1990) may contain asbestos in brake pads or gaskets. These must be dismantled by trained professionals — not just anyone with a spanner.

We partner with licensed wreckers and dismantlers across Perth to ensure every part of your car is processed correctly — no dodgy dump jobs here.

Licensed Car Recyclers vs. Backyard Operators

Not all car removals are created equal. Some backyard or unlicensed operators might offer you quick cash, but what happens next can land you in trouble — not them.

Here’s why working with a licensed company like Car Removal Perth matters:

We’re Compliant

We follow all WA laws around scrappage, transport, fluid handling, and disposal. You can rest easy knowing it’s all above board.

We Protect You

When you book with us, we provide a receipt, verify ownership, and help you complete DoT requirements — you’re not left holding the bag if something goes wrong later.

We Care About the Environment

We don’t just tow it to a scrapyard and forget about it. Your car is recycled, reused, and processed responsibly — the right way.

What Happens to a Car After It’s Scrapped?

Ever wonder what actually happens once we tow your car away? Here’s the behind-the-scenes process your vehicle goes through:

1. Inspection & Valuation

We check if any parts (engine, gearbox, alternator, wheels) are still working and worth salvaging.

2. Drainage of Fluids

All fuel, oil, coolant, and other fluids are drained, filtered, and sent for processing.

3. Dismantling

Usable parts are removed, cleaned, and resold as used spares. Non-usable parts go for metal recycling.

4. Metal Recycling

The car’s shell is crushed and shredded. The steel, aluminium, and other metals are melted down and reused in new products.

5. Waste Management

Non-recyclable waste is handled according to WA disposal regulations — never dumped in landfill or waterways.

So next time someone says scrapping is wasteful — you’ll know better. Most of your old car ends up reused, recycled, or rebuilt.

 Fines & Penalties for Doing It the Wrong Way

Scrapping a car improperly can have serious consequences in WA. If you:

• Abandon a vehicle on public or private land

• Illegally dump car parts or fluids

• Fail to notify DoT of disposal

You could face fines of thousands of dollars under WA’s environmental and transport laws.

Avoid the risk — let Car Removal Perth handle it the legal way.

How Car Removal Perth Makes It Easy (and Legal)

At Car Removal Perth, we’re more than just a tow truck. We’re a licensed, insured, and eco-conscious vehicle removal service that knows the rules — and sticks to them.

When you choose us, you get:

• Free car removal across Perth

• Instant cash payment (up to $9,999)

• Help with all the paperwork

• Eco-friendly dismantling and recycling

• Licensed, compliant service

• No hidden costs or surprises

We take care of everything — so you don’t have to stress about the legal or environmental side of things.

Ready to Scrap Your Car the Right Way?

Whether your car’s been in an accident, failed inspection, or just won’t start anymore — don’t let it sit around collecting rust.

Let Car Removal Perth take it off your hands, legally and responsibly, with cash in your hand and no cost to you.

Call us today on 0412 119 053
We’ll give you a free quote, answer your questions, and arrange same-day pickup anywhere in Perth.

Final Word

Scrapping your car isn’t just about getting rid of it — it’s about doing the right thing. By following WA’s rules and working with licensed car removal experts, you help protect the environment, avoid fines, and make a bit of money on the side.

Let Car Removal Perth make the process simple, legal, and worthwhile.

We cover all of Perth, we pay top dollar, and we play by the rules.
Call 0412 119 053 and let’s get your car gone — the right way