Sioux City, IA Business Licensing & Operations: Pawnbrokers (2026)
Key Facts
- License fee
- $75-$150 per year
- Bond required
- $10,000 surety bond
- License expires
- December 31 annually
- Felony bar
- Fraud, forgery, or theft conviction
- Redemption window
- At least 15 days
Summary
Pawnbrokers and dealers in precious metals or gems in Sioux City, Iowa, the Woodbury County seat, must buy an annual city license, post a $10,000 bond, and clear a felony background check before opening.
No person shall engage in, or carry on, the business of pawnbroker or a dealer in precious metals, precious gems, or coins without paying the fee and procuring a license provided in this chapter, nor shall any person carry on said business in any manner contrary to the provisions of this chapter.
A license will not be issued to anyone with a felony conviction related to fraud, forgery or theft.
The proprietor's license shall be sufficient for all clerks, agents, and employees engaged or employed at each place named in the license. Every clerk, agent, or employee of any pawnbroker, dealer in precious metals, precious gems, or coins shall be subject to and bound by the provisions of this chapter and liable to the same penalties and to the same extent as his employer or principal for any violation thereof.
(Ord. 2014-0487; 98/U-6342; 82/T-5654)
Full Breakdown
Sioux City Municipal Code Chapter 4.48 requires anyone operating as a pawnbroker or buying precious metals, gems, or coins for resale to obtain an annual city license and post a $10,000 surety bond before opening. The license fee is $75 a year for businesses averaging fewer than 20 covered transactions a month, $150 for busier shops, and $150 for transient dealers with no fixed Sioux City location; licenses expire December 31. No license issues to anyone with a felony fraud, forgery, or theft conviction. Every transaction must be logged with the seller's ID and photo, and pawned items must remain redeemable for at least 15 days.
Violations & Fines
Operating without the required license and bond, or without the transaction records SCMC § 4.48.070 mandates (ID, description, photos), is a municipal infraction or simple misdemeanor punishable under § 1.04.100.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Sioux City pawnbroker license cost?
Can a felon get a pawnbroker license in Sioux City?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sioux City
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