New copper laws take effect

New laws signed by Gov. Nikki Haley earlier this summer controlling how nonferrous metals like copper are bought and sold took effect Wednesday, the Greenville County Sheriff's Office announced. 

The laws, which were passed by the General Assembly and authorized by the governor in June, requires permits to be obtained by individuals or businesses that want to buy copper. Those wishing to purchase the metal would have to apply for a two-year permit at a mandated fee of $200. 

Another part of the permitting process would require a second one-year permit for individuals who transport or sell copper and other nonferrous metals. That permit will not carry any charge. 

The final permit is a one-time permit for individuals that do not transport or sell copper on a regular basis. This permit is good for 48 hours and can be obtained by calling Northern Area Command at 864-371-3600 and is available at no cost.

For Greenville County, the new permits are available at Northern Area Command which is located at 4900 Old Buncombe Road, Monday through Friday. The permits do not apply to wholesalers or licensed contractors for electrical, gas, communications, water or plumbing services.

According to the Sheriff's office, Greenville County has experienced an increase in copper-related thefts in the last four to five years. Since January of this year, more than $725,000 worth of copper has been reported stolen. In that same time period, investigators have obtained 295 warrants for those responsible for these thefts, and have a 100 percent conviction rate for cases that have been prosecuted.