Eugene, OR Business Licensing & Operations: Secondhand Dealers (2026)

989 covers anyone who purchases secondhand "regulated property", jewelry, precious metals, electronics, tools, musical instruments, firearms and similar used goods, or who lends money against it, as part of a business. At the time of purchase, the dealer must record the seller's approved government ID, address, date of birth and phone number, and must photograph jewelry, gems and precious metal items. Every purchase has to be entered into the city's approved automated electronic reporting system within 12 hours; the city manager sets and bills reporting fees annually, due 45 days after billing.

Purchased items generally cannot be sold, altered or commingled for 14 full days after the city receives the report, and must stay on the business premises during that hold so police can inspect them; that 14-day hold does not apply to pledges held by a licensed pawnbroker. Dealers are flatly barred from buying property with altered or removed serial numbers, buying from anyone under 18 or obviously intoxicated, knowingly buying from a non-owner, or removing gemstones from jewelry at purchase. Anyone with a felony conviction for burglary, theft, or manufacture or possession of a Schedule I or II controlled substance may not own or operate a used merchandise business.

If police believe purchased property is stolen, the chief of police can order it held up to 180 days. Peace officers may inspect the premises and records during normal business hours without notice. 990(10) sets a fine up to $500 for a first violation, up to $1,500 after three prior convictions, and up to $3,000 after six, with each violation a separate offense; the city manager can also seek an injunction against a dealer with repeated substantial violations.