Reno's Business Licensing & Operations: The Rules That Matter

If you live in Reno or are thinking about moving there, business licensing & operations are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Reno has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of business licensing & operations, and some of them might surprise you.

Secondhand Dealers

Secondhand dealers selling used goods, jewelry, electronics, or precious metals must hold a Reno license, log every purchase with seller ID, and report transactions daily to police to deter trafficking in stolen property.

Key details: License: City required. Log includes: Seller ID + item. Reporting: Daily to police. Hold period: Typically 30 days.

Unlicensed dealing, failure to log or report, or selling within the holding period can lead to misdemeanor charges and license loss.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Reno actively enforces its secondhand dealers requirements.

Pawnbrokers

Pawnbrokers in Reno must hold a city business license, register transactions with police via an electronic reporting system, hold pledged property for a mandatory redemption period, and verify customer identification.

Key details: License: City + state required. Reporting: LeadsOnline daily. Hold period: Around 60 days. ID required: Government photo ID.

Operating without a license, failing to report transactions, or selling pledged items before the redemption period are misdemeanors and license revocation grounds.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Reno actively enforces its pawnbrokers requirements.

The Bottom Line

Reno is tougher than many cities when it comes to business licensing & operations. Out of the 2 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Reno, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Reno can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.