Bozeman, MT Business Licensing & Operations: Pawnbrokers (2026)

Pawnbrokers are regulated in Bozeman Municipal Code chapter 30, article 2. Section 30.02.010 requires a license under chapter 12, article 2 before any business is done, and section 30.02.020 defines a pawnbroker as a person whose business is to take or receive by pledge, pawn or exchange any goods, wares, merchandise or other personal property for the repayment or security of money loaned on it. The application goes to the director of administrative services with the chapter 12 fee under section 30.02.030.

Section 30.02.070 sets the hold. A pawnbroker must hold all purchases made through a purchase transaction for ten days, during which the property cannot be disposed of or altered from the form in which it was received. The ten days start on the day the purchase transaction is uploaded into the police department designated database.

Section 30.02.080 requires every pawnbroker to own, maintain and operate a computer system with internet access. Records must be filed electronically every day, directly to the police department or to an internet subscription service designated as the police department's agent, as prescribed by the chief of police. Information from the database on contracts for purchase, pledges and purchase transactions must be entered and uploaded.

Section 30.02.040 lists what each customer must give: name and date of birth, current residence address, and identification such as a valid state identification card, state driver's license, military identification card, valid passport, alien registration card, or an official identification document lawfully issued by a state or federal government. The numerical register must show the pawnbroker's or agent's printed name and signature, the price, date, time and place, and a detailed description of each item including trademarks, serial numbers, model numbers and other identifying marks.

Section 30.02.100 requires a signed written declaration of ownership, with a power of attorney from any co-owners. Section 30.02.060 bars transactions with anyone under 18 or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Section 30.02.090 requires records to be preserved for three years after redemption or forfeiture and sale.