Denver is attempting to reduce thefts of copper wire and other scrap metal through a new set of restrictions the City Council approved this week as it strives to address the growing problem while avoiding criminal penalties.

Under the regulations passed Monday, scrap metal recycling dealers can no longer pay cash for certain materials that include copper, bronze, brass and aluminum. They also can’t accept any materials delivered to them in something other than a vehicle. That means buyers will have to turn away walk-up sellers who use shopping carts, bikes and scooters to bring the materials.

The rules exempt purchases of coins, cans, and precious metals like gold and silver.

“What we are doing is targeting the underground economy that incentivizes theft of high-value materials — especi

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