El Paso, TX Business Licensing & Operations: Secondhand Dealers (2026)
Key Facts
- Licensing office
- City license official / chief of police
- License term
- One year
- Record retention
- One year per transaction
- Mandatory hold period
- 20 days before resale
- Maximum fine
- $2,000 per violation
Summary
Anyone buying, selling or trading secondhand goods in El Paso, from resale shops to flea-market kiosks, needs a city license under Chapter 5.12, plus detailed daily transaction records the police department can inspect on demand. The license is site-specific and must be renewed every year.
It is unlawful for an individual, partnership, corporation, joint venture, trust, association or other legal entity to engage in the business of secondhand goods without first paying the established non-refundable fee(s) and obtaining a license therefore, as hereinafter provided. A separate application and license will be required for each location, place or premises used for the conducting of the business of the secondhand dealer. A separate established non-refundable fee will be charged for each additional license issued.
Full Breakdown
12 regulates dealers in secondhand goods, crafted precious metals, coin dealers and pawnbrokers. " A separate license is required for every location. 050. 140). Dealers cannot buy from anyone under eighteen without a parent or guardian's written consent, and cannot buy an item with an altered or removed serial number. 160, though antique and coin dealers still must comply for any non-exempt secondhand goods they handle.
Violations & Fines
Violating any provision of Chapter 5.12 is a misdemeanor under Section 5.12.220, punishable by a fine up to $2,000; an employee's violation is imputed to the dealer, who faces the same penalty. Six or more violations within the preceding twelve months is grounds for license denial, and the chief of police or license official can deny, and later revoke, a license for noncompliance, with appeal to a municipal associate judge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do secondhand stores in El Paso need a city license?
How long must a dealer hold an item before reselling it?
Are pawnshops covered by the same chapter?
Are garage sales or thrift stores exempt?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in El Paso
Texas rules heatmap·Compare El Paso to another location·View the Texas business licensing & operations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.