What You Need to Know About Solicitations
Have you ever wondered if the person knocking on your door to sell a service or a magazine is legal according to City regulations? Do you know your rights when it comes to solicitors? The City of Maryland Heights regulates the activities of solicitors to protect the privacy of residents and shield them from harassment. Maryland Heights issues solicitor licenses to those who apply and qualify based on regulations in the Municipal Code.
The following questions are frequently asked regarding this process:
Who is required to obtain a Solicitors License?
Any person who is knocking on your door, with the exception of individuals running for political office, require a Solicitors License. As soon as an individual knocks on your door and engages you personally, they are required to have a license. The regulations do not apply to those seeking to collect legitimate amounts due, nor to any government agency or official in the pursuit of official duties. A license is not required to distribute a handbill, written advertisement, or other local publication provided the distributor does not knock on your door.
What is the application process?
Solicitors licenses are issued to each individual person going door to door. In other words, a company cannot get one license and send out many different solicitors. A license costs $25.00 per solicitor for a 30 day period. The application requires a State Highway Patrol background check and a photo ID. Once a license is issued, a photo of the solicitor is added. This license and photo must be worn around their neck at all times and be visible upon request while they are soliciting.
What times can a solicitor knock on my door?
Solicitors are allowed to solicit at any time between 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. or sunset (whichever occurs first). Solicitors may not approach any premises where “No Trespassing” or “No Soliciting Allowed” notices are posted.
What should you do if someone comes to your home?
Ask to see their solicitors license if it is not visible. If they do not have one, contact the Police Department at their non-emergency number, (314) 298-8700. Please remember to take note of any identifying characteristics and direction of travel to report to the Police Department. These regulations are put into place by the Mayor and City Council to protect you from unwelcomed solicitors in your neighborhood and to provide you with the knowledge that those that have obtained a license have met the qualifications outlined in the Municipal Code. Concerns or questions regarding this article should be directed to the City Clerk’s office, (314) 738-2212.
The following questions are frequently asked regarding this process:
Who is required to obtain a Solicitors License?
Any person who is knocking on your door, with the exception of individuals running for political office, require a Solicitors License. As soon as an individual knocks on your door and engages you personally, they are required to have a license. The regulations do not apply to those seeking to collect legitimate amounts due, nor to any government agency or official in the pursuit of official duties. A license is not required to distribute a handbill, written advertisement, or other local publication provided the distributor does not knock on your door.
What is the application process?
Solicitors licenses are issued to each individual person going door to door. In other words, a company cannot get one license and send out many different solicitors. A license costs $25.00 per solicitor for a 30 day period. The application requires a State Highway Patrol background check and a photo ID. Once a license is issued, a photo of the solicitor is added. This license and photo must be worn around their neck at all times and be visible upon request while they are soliciting.
What times can a solicitor knock on my door?
Solicitors are allowed to solicit at any time between 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. or sunset (whichever occurs first). Solicitors may not approach any premises where “No Trespassing” or “No Soliciting Allowed” notices are posted.
What should you do if someone comes to your home?
Ask to see their solicitors license if it is not visible. If they do not have one, contact the Police Department at their non-emergency number, (314) 298-8700. Please remember to take note of any identifying characteristics and direction of travel to report to the Police Department. These regulations are put into place by the Mayor and City Council to protect you from unwelcomed solicitors in your neighborhood and to provide you with the knowledge that those that have obtained a license have met the qualifications outlined in the Municipal Code. Concerns or questions regarding this article should be directed to the City Clerk’s office, (314) 738-2212.