Business Licensing & Operations in Lawrence, MA (2026)
2 verified business licensing & operations rules for Lawrence, Massachusetts, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Secondhand Dealers
Secondhand and junk shops in Lawrence need a city council license under state law before buying or selling used goods. The annual fee is $125.00, and every shopkeeper must log each purchase and report it to police daily.
Lawrence Secondhand Dealer License
Significant RestrictionsLawrence, MA Code of Ordinances § 5.44.010
The city council may, as provided by section 54 of chapter 140 of the General Laws, license suitable persons to be dealers in secondhand articles and keepers of shops for the purchase, sale and barter of such articles, pursuant to law.
Pawnbrokers
Lawrence pawnbrokers need a city council license issued every three years for $300.00, plus a $300.00 bond under state law. Rule-based recordkeeping in Chapter 5.72 requires photographing every customer, checking ID and reporting suspected stolen goods to the police department.
Lawrence Pawnbroker Licensing Rules
Significant RestrictionsLawrence, MA Code of Ordinances § 5.72.010
The city council may license suitable persons to carry on the business of pawnbrokers in this city, pursuant to the provisions of chapter 140 of the General Laws and further pursuant to regulations promulgated pursuant to this chapter. Licenses may be issued in April to be valid for 36 months beginning the next succeeding first day of May. Such licenses shall continue in force until May first o...