Secondhand goods dealers in King County must register with local police, record seller identification, and hold purchased items for a minimum period under RCW 19.60 to allow recovery of stolen property by law enforcement.
Washington's secondhand dealer law, RCW 19.60, requires anyone in the business of buying used personal property to register with local law enforcement, record each transaction, and hold articles for at least 30 days before resale. Records must include seller identification, item description, and serial numbers, and be transmitted to police. Several King County cities and the Sheriff's office use the LeadsOnline system. Pawnbrokers face additional rules under RCW 19.60.045. The framework is meant to deter trafficking in stolen goods and aid recovery investigations.
Failing to register, falsifying records, or releasing items before the holding period can trigger civil penalties, criminal misdemeanor charges, and forfeiture of unreported merchandise.
King County, WA
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See how King County's secondhand dealers rules stack up against other locations.
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