Solicitors and Peddlers

Definitions

Solicitor: Anyone who goes door-to-door attempting to obtain orders for items that will be delivered later, such as magazine subscriptions or other items that may be sold out of a catalog. Solicitors must register with the Lakeville Police Department and will receive a registration certificate.

Peddler: Anyone who goes door-to-door attempting to sell items that are delivered immediately upon payment, such as vacuum cleaners or cleaning supplies. Peddlers must apply for a City-issued ID/license to conduct business as a peddler.

Sign/Placard

No solicitor or peddler, unless invited to do so by the property owner or tenant, shall enter the property of another for the purpose of conducting business as a  solicitor or peddler when the property is marked with a sign or placard at least 3.75" long and 3.75" wide with print of at least 48-point in size stating "No Peddlers or Solicitors", or "Peddlers and Solicitors Prohibited", or other comparable statement.

Download an example of a sign you can post on your property (PDF).

Requirements

Both solicitors and peddlers are required to display their ID card or registration certificate, or must present it if asked. Solicitors and peddlers are not allowed to go door-to-door between the hours of 8 p.m. and 9 a.m.

Solicitors and peddlers can be respectful and businesslike, or some may have more aggressive sales tactics. If you are uncomfortable with the behavior of any sales person who comes to your door, if they are unable to show you their City-issued ID or registration certificate, or if they refuse to leave your property, don’t hesitate to call 911 to have a police officer dispatched. 

City Code

You can find more details about solicitors and peddlers by viewing the Lakeville City Code (Chapter 13).