Secondhand dealers and pawnbrokers in unincorporated Orange County must register with the OC Sheriff and report all transactions daily through the state CAPSS system to deter trafficking in stolen goods.
California Business & Professions Code §21625 et seq. requires secondhand dealers — including jewelry buyers, electronics resellers, and pawnshops — to register with local law enforcement, fingerprint employees, and file daily transaction reports identifying every item received, including serial numbers and seller identification. Submissions go through the California Pawnshop and Secondhand Dealer System (CAPSS). The OC Sheriff serves as the local registering authority for unincorporated establishments. A 30-day hold prevents resale, allowing detectives to flag stolen property. Coin and bullion dealers fall under modified rules.
Unregistered operation, false transaction reports, or selling held goods within 30 days exposes dealers to misdemeanor prosecution, license revocation, and civil forfeiture of unreported merchandise.
See how other cities in Orange County handle secondhand dealers.
See how Costa Mesa's secondhand dealers rules stack up against other locations.
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