Solicitors Ordinance
Who is a Solicitor?
Anyone who goes to a private residence or business without being invited for the purpose of taking orders for the sale of goods, merchandise, or services.
What are the penalties for soliciting without a permit?
- The first offense is a citation.
- The second offense is a misdemeanor.
- If a person knocks where a No Solicitor sign is posted, they lose their permit.
What are residents’ responsibilities?
- Never open your door to strangers.
- If you encounter a solicitor at your door without a permit, call (925) 284-5010 24 hour police dispatch.
- If a solicitor knocks where a No Solicitor sign is posted, call (925) 284-5010.
What are the responsibilities of the Lafayette Police Department?
- Perform a background check.
- Provide the permit with a picture ID.
- Respond to citizen’s calls.
Who needs a permit?
- All commercial peddlers or solicitors.
- Anyone asking for money in exchange for goods or services.
How should the permit be displayed?
Every solicitor or peddler must wear the permit. This permit will include a photo ID. It must be visible at all times. Otherwise, they are in violation of the ordinance.
Who is exempt?
- Religious & political groups.
- Non-profits where goods, or services are not being sold.
- Any person who is 15 years old or younger.
What is the “No Knock” rule?
No peddler or solicitor can knock or ring the bell of a private residence or business where a No Soliciting sign is
clearly posted. To do so is a violation of this ordinance.
When is soliciting NOT allowed?
A person can not solicit, peddle, or canvass between the hours of 6pm—9am.
Why is this ordinance necessary?
The Crime Prevention Commission responded to concerns over unregulated door-to-door peddling in Lafayette.
Our goal is to protect residents from fraud and criminal activity, while promoting the safety and privacy of our residents and business owners.
Refer to Section 4-4 of the Municipal Code for more details.
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