Fargo, ND Business Licensing & Operations: Pawnbrokers (2026)
Key Facts
- License required
- per fixed business premises
- Surety bond
- $5,000 minimum
- Background check
- chief of police investigation
- Unlicensed operation penalty
- class B misdemeanor
- LEADS reporting
- transactions logged electronically
Summary
Fargo requires anyone operating a pawn shop to hold a city license tied to a fixed business location, backed by a $5,000 bond and a police background check.
No person shall engage in business as a pawnbroker unless said person has a fixed premises where said business is conducted, either on a continuing basis or from time to time, and unless said person has first obtained a license to engage in that business at that premises. A separate license is required for each place of business. The city may issue more than one license to a person if the person complies with the requirements of the chapter. A license issued under this article shall be prominently displayed at the licensed premises during hours when such premises is open for business. If, during the effective period of a license issued under this article, a licensee changes the location of the licensed premises within the city, such licensee shall inform the city auditor and the chief of police of such change of location and shall have the new premises to be licensed noted on the license. There shall be no additional fee charged for changing the location of the licensed premises. The operation of a business as a pawnbroker without a license as required by this section shall be a class B misdemeanor.
Full Breakdown
Fargo Municipal Code Article 25-10 requires every pawnbroker to operate from a fixed, licensed premises and obtain a separate license for each location before opening. Applicants file with the city commission on a police-department form, and the chief of police investigates the applicant's character and fitness and reports a recommendation before the commission decides. Operating without the license is a class B misdemeanor.
Violations & Fines
Operating as a pawnbroker without the required city license is a class B misdemeanor under § 25-1002; the city can also deny, suspend or decline to renew a license after a police fitness investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run a pawn shop in Fargo without a city license?
Does Fargo require a bond for pawnbrokers?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fargo
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