Mesa vs Phoenix
How do pawnbrokers rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Phoenix, AZ?
Phoenix has fewer restrictions than Mesa.
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona Revised Statutes Section 44-1621 et seq. governs pawnbrokers statewide with strict recordkeeping and law-enforcement reporting requirements. Maricopa County Sheriff oversees unincorporated dealers; cities add local licensing on top of state rules.
View full Mesa rules →Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix pawnbrokers need a city license under Phoenix City Code Chapter 23 plus state filings under Arizona ARS §44-1601. Daily transaction reports flow to Phoenix Police via Leads Online. Loans carry 15-day police holds and capped interest.
View full Phoenix rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mesa | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Hold period | 90 days | 15 days minimum |
| Interest cap | 10% per month | - |
| Statute | ARS 44-1621 | - |
| Reporting | Daily to police | - |
| State authority | - | ARS §§44-1601 to 44-1626 |
| City license | - | Phoenix Chapter 23 |
| License issuer | - | Phoenix Police Department |
| Default period | - | 60 days before forfeiture |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mesa FAQ
What interest can a pawnbroker charge in Maricopa County?
Maximum 10 percent per month under ARS 44-1623, plus reasonable storage and handling fees. Renewal pawn tickets must clearly disclose all charges and the redemption deadline.
How long does the pawnshop hold my item?
Minimum 90 days under ARS 44-1625 before the broker may sell forfeited items. You can renew by paying interest before the redemption period ends.
Phoenix FAQ
What interest can a Phoenix pawnshop charge?
Arizona ARS §44-1625 caps monthly finance charges, currently up to 13 percent on loans under $150 and lower tiered rates above that, plus a setup fee. Phoenix does not add local rate caps.
How long until I lose pawned property?
After the 30 to 90 day loan term plus a state-mandated grace period, pawned property is forfeited if you fail to redeem. Phoenix shops also honor Leads Online police holds before resale.
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