Yorba Linda, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Pawnbrokers (2026)

Section 5.04.020 makes it unlawful to operate, conduct or manage any pawnbroker business, defined in Section 5.04.010 as loaning money on personal property or buying and reselling it at a prearranged price, without first obtaining a permit. Applicants file a written, signed and acknowledged application with the City Manager under Section 5.04.040 disclosing the business location, all persons responsible for management, and any criminal convictions of the applicant or associates. Section 5.04.060 requires the City Manager to refer every application to the Chief of Police to investigate the business, its location, and the character, reputation and moral fitness of the applicant and associates.

Section 5.04.070 requires a City Council public hearing, with notice published in a newspaper at least 10 days beforehand, mailed notice to property owners within 300 feet, and a posted notice at the site. Under Section 5.04.080, the Council issues the permit only if it finds the business will comport with peace, health, safety, convenience, good morals and general welfare, and may attach conditions; it must deny the permit if the applicant is unfit, has bad moral character or a bad reputation for honesty. Permits run for a fiscal year, July 1 to June 30, under Section 5.04.100, are nontransferable without Council consent under Section 5.04.120, and renew by filing with the City Manager and a Chief of Police recommendation at least 15 days before expiration per Section 5.04.130.