Seattle, WA Business Licensing & Operations: Secondhand Dealers (2026)
Key Facts
- State law
- RCW 19.60
- City code
- SMC 6.288
- Holding period
- 30 days
- Reporting system
- LeadsOnline daily
- Charity exemption
- Most donations exempt
Summary
Secondhand dealers in Seattle must register under SMC 6.288, comply with WA RCW 19.60 reporting, hold purchases for 30 days, photograph and electronically transmit transaction details to the Seattle Police Department through LeadsOnline, and verify seller identification.
Chapter 19.60 RCW — PAWNBROKERS AND SECONDHAND DEALERS. Sections relevant to secondhand dealers include: 19.60.020 Duty to record information; 19.60.025 Duty to record information — Precious metal property; 19.60.040 Report to chief law enforcement officer; 19.60.042 Report to chief law enforcement officer — Precious metal dealers; 19.60.045 Duties upon notification that property is reported stolen; 19.60.055 Retention of property by secondhand dealers — Inspection; 19.60.057 Retention of precious metal property — Inspection; 19.60.067 Secondhand precious metal dealers — Prohibited acts — Penalty; 19.60.075 Regulation by political subdivisions; 19.60.077 Precious metal dealers — Licensure required; 19.60.085 Exemptions; 19.60.095 Precious metal sales — Hosted home parties; 19.60.105 Automated kiosks. Notes: Larceny — Receiving stolen property: RCW 9A.56.140 through 9A.56.170.
Full Breakdown
RCW 19.60 covers pawnbrokers and secondhand dealers: businesses that buy, exchange, or take in trade used goods. Sellers must produce government ID and sign or thumbprint a transaction record. Dealers transmit daily reports including item description, serial numbers, photographs, and seller information through an SPD-approved system (typically LeadsOnline). Goods must be held thirty days before resale or alteration so police can trace stolen property. Seattle's SMC 6.288 adds local registration and inspection. Charity thrift stores receiving donations are generally exempt.
Violations & Fines
Failing to verify ID, skipping daily electronic reporting, altering or selling items before the 30-day hold, or refusing inspection exposes dealers to misdemeanor charges, license revocation, and forfeiture of any property linked to theft.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a secondhand dealer?
Can I resell goods immediately?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Seattle
Compare Seattle to another location·View the Washington business licensing & operations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Secondhand Dealers in Nearby Cities
How other cities in King County handle secondhand dealers.