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Fairfax County Office of Consumer Affairs explains who needs business licenses and how to complain about towing
Summary
Fairfax County consumer officials outlined which businesses need county permits, exceptions for school and religious fundraising, rules for door‑to‑door solicitors, how to file towing complaints, and how to apply for licenses in person with required ID and notarized documents when appropriate.
Kim Vallejos, a consumer specialist with the Fairfax County Office of Consumer Affairs, hosted a consumer‑education episode that walked residents through common county licensing rules and how the office handles complaints.
Arlen Roberts, manager of the Office of Relationship and Licenses, said that under Chapter 31 of the Fairfax County Code most people who sell goods or services door‑to‑door or from a temporary location must hold a solicitor license. He cited examples including tree‑service crews, driveway‑sealing contractors, home‑improvement firms, pest‑control and lawn‑care services and companies that sell internet or cable services.
Roberts said solicitors must not approach homes that display "No Solicitors" signs, may operate only between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m., and "must display their license" while conducting solicitation (translation of remarks). He also listed common exemptions from the solicitor license requirement: student fundraising for schools, youth groups such as Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, political candidates during campaigns and religious organizations.
The office also regulates or issues permits for other activities and businesses, Roberts said, naming pawnshops and precious‑metals dealers, advertised going‑out‑of‑business sales, electric scooters, taxi and driver companies and crane operators. Roberts said the office carries out annual inspections, verifies that fees charged are lawful and investigates complaints submitted by residents.
On towing, Roberts advised that residents who believe their vehicle was improperly towed should first call the county non‑emergency police number so an officer can verify the situation; residents may also file an online complaint with the Office of Consumer Affairs or call the office directly. He noted that towing operators are required to register with the county and that the office investigates complaints for possible violations.
On applications, Roberts said all applicants must apply in person, verify their identity and provide documents required for the specific license; some documents must be notarized and the office provides notary services at no charge. Because licensing requirements vary by activity, Roberts recommended that applicants contact the office or consult the Fairfax County website for detailed instructions.
Vallejos closed the program by thanking Roberts, providing the consumer office phone number and social media information and inviting listeners to the next episode.
The office contact information given on the program was 703‑222‑8435 and the county website for licensing and consumer complaints was referenced for forms and instructions.
