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Council discusses door-to-door solicitors and peddler permits; resident urges clarity on 'solicitation'
Summary
Council reviewed rules distinguishing peddlers (who sell product at the door and require a peddler's permit) and solicitors (who register but do not undergo the same background checks); resident Brian Pollson urged that financial gain is the key element for solicitation.
The New Prague City Council discussed local requirements for door-to-door sellers and the difference between peddlers and solicitors. Council members said individuals who sell a product at the door must carry a peddler's permit (which carries a fee and includes a background check); individuals who only solicit or register with the city are handled as solicitors, which the council said does not trigger the same background check.
Council members advised residents they may ask solicitors or peddlers to show their registration or permit paperwork at the door; staff indicated that Margaret (a city staffer identified in the meeting) processes those permits and registrations. Councilors suggested adding a reminder to the city utility bill or newsletter explaining how residents can ask for proof of registration and reminding homeowners they may post 'no soliciting' signs.
Resident Brian Pollson, who identified himself with an address during the public-comment portion, said courts have distinguished petitioning from solicitation and summarized his understanding: "From my understanding, it's financial gain is the biggest thing that makes it solicitation." Pollson offered that petitioning is typically not covered by solicitation statutes.
Council members described recent encounters with pushy canvassers and discussed whether the city should clarify wording on public materials to help residents distinguish between solicitation and other door-to-door activities.
