Dealers in second hand goods

To deal in second hand goods you need to register with us.

Public register

There is no legal requirement to keep a register. If you want to know whether a dealer is registered, please contact us.

Application process

There is no fee for this application.

Registrations are valid for three years and by law a copy must be displayed at the premises.

How long will my application take?

We aim to determine applications within 21 days from receipt of a completed application, including payment.

Will Tacit Consent apply?

Yes. If you have not heard from us within 21 days you may act as though your application is granted. However you are strongly advised to contact us to confirm your registration has been granted.

Registration requirements

Please note that it is a legal requirement that your certificate of registration is prominently displayed on the premises.

The law also states that you must keep a book showing a record of every transaction under which you acquire any goods in the course of your business. That record should show the following:

  • The date the transaction took place
  • Details of the quantity
  • A description of any articles that you obtain
  • The name and address of the person from whom you got them.

We have produced an example form showing the type of records you should be keeping. Feel free to use this form, and make appropriate copies.

You must keep records for a period of one year from the date that the last transaction is entered in it. It is an offence not to keep the records or not to keep them for a year. If convicted you could be fined up to £200. The book must be available at all times for inspection by an authorised officer, or any police constable.

Please also be aware that it is an offence to acquire any second hand goods from a person under the age of 16.

Failed application or licence holder redress

Please contact us in the first instance.

A-Z

© Wigan Council