Las Vegas, NV – Clark County is considering implementing stricter penalties for individuals caught purchasing stolen copper or other scrap metal.

The Clark County Board of Commissioners will discuss amending the county’s ordinance regarding scrap metal purchases during their regular meeting on Tuesday, October 15th. The proposed changes aim to deter the purchase of stolen scrap metal and crack down on the ongoing problem of copper wire thefts in the area.

Under the revised ordinance, buyers must verify that sellers are transporting the scrap metal using a vehicle. Additionally, the purchase of burned copper wire would only be allowed if the seller can provide proof of lawful acquisition.

To further reduce the risk of dealing with stolen materials, payments for scrap metal would need to be made via check or electronic transfer.

Individuals who violate the ordinance could face a minimum fine of $500 for the first offense and $1,000 for subsequent violations.

It’s important to note that the proposed changes are only for introduction at the October 15th meeting. Official approval of the amended ordinance is expected to occur on November 19th.

The proposed stricter penalties would apply to unincorporated Clark County. The City of Las Vegas recently approved a similar ordinance to combat copper wire thefts.

These measures are intended to help curb the theft of scrap metal, which has been a significant problem in Southern Nevada. By making it more difficult for individuals to purchase stolen materials, authorities hope to reduce the financial losses suffered by businesses and property owners.