Secondhand Goods Dealers Licence
The Secondhand Goods Dealers Licence is required by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) for businesses dealing in secondhand goods regulated by the Police. The licence is valid for 1 or 2 years at a specific site, with processing typically completed in 3 weeks.
- Validity
- Ordinary Licence: 1, 2 Years at a specific site
- Processing time
- 3 Weeks
- Issuing authority
- SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE (SPF)
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Who needs the Secondhand Goods Dealers Licence
This licence applies to Singapore businesses registered under the following SSIC industry codes:
What's involved in getting the Secondhand Goods Dealers Licence
The scope of the application — what must be in place, how the agency reviews, and where applications typically stall.
What this licence allows the business to do
The Secondhand Goods Dealers Licence permits businesses in Singapore to legally deal in secondhand goods that are regulated by the Police. This includes buying, selling, or trading items classified under the Secondhand Goods Dealers Act 2007.
What must be in place before the licence can be granted
Before the licence can be issued, several conditions must be met. Businesses must have the necessary documentation, including an ACRA Business Profile that details the company’s registration and activities. If the business intends to deal in secondhand telecommunications equipment, an approved IMDA Licence is also required. Additionally, URA Planning Permission may be necessary if the premises are used for specific activities, such as scrap metal dealings.
How the agency reviews and decides
The Singapore Police Force conducts a thorough assessment of the application. This includes reviewing the submitted documents and ensuring that the business complies with all regulatory requirements. The agency may also conduct inspections of the premises to verify that it meets the necessary standards for dealing in secondhand goods.
Common reasons applications stall
Applications for the Secondhand Goods Dealers Licence can face delays for several reasons. One common issue is the submission of incomplete documentation, which can lead to requests for additional information. Another frequent cause of delays is the failure to secure the necessary planning permissions or licenses, particularly for businesses dealing in specialized secondhand goods like telecommunications equipment. Ensuring that all prerequisites are in place before applying can help mitigate these risks.
Required documents and prerequisites
Items the applicant typically needs ready before submitting:
- Required documents
- ACRA Business Profile
- ACRA Business Profile with company details
- Approved IMDA Licence
- For approval to deal in secondhand telecommunications equipment
- URA Planning Permission
- For using the premises for scrap metal business
- For renewal of existing licence
- You should submit your renewal application at least one month before the expiry date of your existing licence.
Secondhand Goods Dealers Licence FAQ
Do I need this licence to start operating?
Yes, if your business intends to deal in secondhand goods regulated by the Police, obtaining the Secondhand Goods Dealers Licence is mandatory. Operating without this licence can lead to legal repercussions.
What can my business do once licensed?
Once licensed, your business can legally buy, sell, or trade secondhand goods that fall under the regulations set by the Singapore Police Force. This includes a variety of items, depending on the specific regulations applicable.
What happens if I operate without it?
Operating without the Secondhand Goods Dealers Licence can result in significant penalties, including fines and potential legal action from the authorities. It is crucial to ensure compliance to avoid these risks.
What's the most common reason applications get rejected?
The most common reason for rejection is the submission of incomplete or incorrect documentation. Ensuring that all required documents are accurately prepared and submitted can help avoid this issue.
Can a foreign-owned company hold this licence?
Yes, foreign-owned companies can apply for the Secondhand Goods Dealers Licence in Singapore, provided they meet all the necessary requirements and conditions set by the Singapore Police Force.
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