Lee's Summit, MO Business Licensing & Operations: Secondhand Dealers (2026)

Section 24-51 makes it unlawful for a 'dealer,' defined in § 24-21 as anyone who buys secondhand precious metals or gems, to purchase such items without first obtaining a City business license; holding a license from another city does not excuse the requirement. Section 24-52 requires itinerant dealers, meaning any dealer who is not an established dealer of at least 60 days' standing, to post a $5,000 cash bond, surety bond, or irrevocable letter of credit before a permit issues, running for 60 days beyond the dealer's last transaction.

Section 24-53 conditions issuance on payment of the fee, proof of good character (no felony conviction for stolen property, fraud, misrepresentation or moral turpitude within 10 years, or misdemeanor within 5 years), a photograph of the licensee, and designation of the business premises and operating dates; itinerant licenses run no more than 60 days and require a separate license for each location. Section 24-23 bars any purchase from a seller under 18 or where doubt of ownership exists. Section 24-24 requires dealers to hold every item purchased for 10 days without alteration, concealment, or removal from the City without written consent of the Chief of Police.

Sections 24-25 and 24-26 require dealers to record the seller's name, address, date of birth and photo ID on forms furnished by the Chief of Police, available for inspection at any reasonable time. Section 24-27 requires itinerant dealers to report all purchases to the Chief of Police daily, within 24 hours of the transaction, and established dealers to report within 72 hours. Section 24-28 lets the Chief of Police enter and inspect any dealer's premises to search for stolen property or review the required records.