Secondhand Dealers: Phoenix vs Tempe
How do secondhand dealers rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Phoenix and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Secondhand-merchandise dealers operating in Phoenix follow Arizona ARS §44-1641 reporting rules, requiring transaction records, seller ID, and 15-day holds on regulated articles. Phoenix Police use the Leads Online database to flag stolen property and trigger investigations.
View full Phoenix rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona Revised Statutes Section 44-1641 requires secondhand dealers to maintain transaction records and report purchased property to law enforcement. Maricopa County Sheriff uses the LeadsOnline reporting database; cities add their own dealer permits within their limits.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| State authority | ARS §§44-1641 to 44-1644 | - |
| Reporting system | Leads Online (RAPID) | LeadsOnline |
| Hold period | 15 days minimum | 30 days minimum |
| Records required | Seller ID, photos, description | - |
| City enforcement | Phoenix Police Property Crimes | - |
| Statute | - | ARS 44-1641 |
| Penalty | - | Class 6 felony |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
What goods are covered?
Jewelry, precious metals, electronics, tools, musical instruments, firearms, sports equipment, and similar articles. Books, clothing, and household goods sold through traditional thrift stores are usually exempt.
How does Leads Online work?
Dealers upload transaction data daily, including seller ID and item descriptions. Phoenix Police search the database against stolen-property reports and place holds on flagged items before resale or alteration.
Tempe FAQ
Do I need to record seller IDs at my used-electronics store?
Yes. ARS 44-1641 requires government-issued ID, photo, fingerprint when feasible, and item details for every purchase, with daily upload to law enforcement reporting systems.
Can I resell items immediately after purchase?
No. Secondhand dealers must hold purchased items at least 30 days under ARS 44-1644 to give law enforcement time to flag stolen property before resale or melting.
Compare other topics
See how Phoenix and Tempe compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool