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Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council said it had received complaints about the trucks touring the village and sounding a horn and loudhailer.
One vehicle was heard at 10am on Sunday in the Purnells Way area and another vehicle was spotted in the afternoon.
A spokesman said: “We have received concerns from residents about scrap metal collectors working in the borough, including in Knowle.
“We have been working with the police to locate, stop and speak to the collectors to ensure they are aware of the law and other rules on waste and noise control.
“We back this up in writing and if the trader is from outside of the borough, we pass the details to the local authority concerned.”
They said: “If residents have concerns, they should note the registration number of the vehicle and contact us. Without this, it is difficult to take action.”
“If we have not had previous dealings with the operator of the vehicle, we will take steps to trace them and ensure they receive advice.
“If we have already spoken with them, then further action may have to be considered.”
Police said complaints about the noise showed ‘increasing regularity’ and said about a dozen are in operation in the borough, mostly from Walsall.
A column in The Solihull Observer said a three-day crackdown was carried out and six were asked to sign ‘codes’ pledging ‘acceptable’ use.
It said some items not intended for collection, such as lawnmowers, had been taken from gardens.
Advertising from a loudhailer is illegal under the Pollution Control Act, it said, apart from ice creams, which sell perishables.
But it said the issue is ‘less clear’ when a handheld bugle is used instead of a recording, though ‘excessive’ use may breach the Environmental Protection Act.
It says: “I guess it is like most things it’s a question of proportionality: a quick bugle toot is OK but prolonged blasts that disturb night workers’ or young children’s sleep isn’t acceptable.”
Residents can report registration numbers and details to the police. Click here to find your local officer. The council can be contacted on 0121 704 8000.
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