Columbia Exemptions ordinance (§ 13-120)
Chapter 13: Licenses, Permits and Miscellaneous Business Regulations · Article V. Precious Metals Dealers
In short: Precious-metal dealer rules don't apply to scrap metal dealers buying or trading only lots over four ounces, securities dealers trading at exchanges outside the city, health care providers using precious metals, or coin shows where all dealers register their names, addresses and license communities with the police chief.
Our plain-English summary, not the official text or legal advice. The ordinance below is what counts.
The following shall be exempted from the provisions of this article:
(1) Dealers in scrap iron, bronze, aluminum, brass and/or precious metals, where such metals are purchased or traded only in lots exceeding four (4) ounces in weight.
(2) Dealers buying or trading securities, commodities, bonds or other certificate of value representing or having as its basis a precious metal when same are sold, bought or traded at any exchange outside the city limits.
(3) Persons dealing in precious metals solely for the purpose of providing dental, medical or other forms of health care service.
(4) All transactions conducted as a part of any coin show where all dealers conducting business at such coin show register with the chief of police their names, addresses, and the communities in which business licenses are held by such dealers.
Official source: City of Columbia official Code of Ordinances (online): look up Sec. 13-120
Text from Supplement 139 (September 3, 2026).
Last checked November 1, 2026. The city's official copy controls; this page is a reading copy, not legal advice.