Howell, NJ Business Licensing & Operations: Pawnbrokers (2026)

Section 245-1 of the Howell Township Code states that Chapter 245 provides licensing and regulation of individuals dealing in precious metals, gems, secondhand goods and pawnbrokering. The chapter defines one term, secondhand dealer, and writes the license requirement around it; § 245-5C separately refers to property received for pawn or consignment. Under § 245-3 no person or entity can engage in business without first obtaining a license from the Township Clerk. A separate license is needed for each place of business, the number issued is limited to six, preexisting licensed dealers can be grandfathered on proof of uninterrupted operation, and a license is not transferable. Advertising to buy covered goods counts as engaging in business, and the license number must appear in print and electronic ads or be stated aloud.

The Police Department investigates each applicant for experience, reputation for fair dealing and criminal record (checks run through MorphoTrak), and must finish within 30 days. The Chief of Police recommends to the Township Council. A denial is sent by certified mail within 10 days, and the applicant can request a hearing in writing within 10 days of receiving it, with the burden of proof on the Police Department (§ 245-4). Issuance depends on a $10,000 bond kept in force and renewed annually (§ 245-8). Licenses run January 1 through December 31, with fees set in Chapter 139, Fees (§ 245-9).

Operating rules are tight. Dealers must take government photo identification or a valid New Jersey driver's license, record a thumb print when other ID is shown, issue a serially numbered receipt, photograph each item and the seller's ID, never buy from anyone under 18, and enter every transaction into the Police-approved electronic database by the close of business that day. Purchased goods cannot be sold or melted until after the close of business on the 10th day and must stay on location (§ 245-6). Records are kept two years, and receipts reach the Howell Township Police Department within 36 hours (§ 245-7).