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Richmond adopts no‑knock registry in hawkers and peddlers ordinance
Summary
After a public hearing that drew mixed testimony, the council adopted amendments to Chapter 5.20 creating a no‑knock registry enabling residents to opt out of commercial door‑to‑door solicitation; the ordinance increases fines for violations and directs the town administrator to publicize the registry.
The Richmond Town Council voted to adopt amendments to its hawkers and peddlers code to establish a no‑knock registry for residents who do not wish to receive door‑to‑door commercial solicitation.
Councilor Palamishano introduced the ordinance changes and framed them as returning control to residents: the registry will allow residents to sign up so solicitors receive an updated list and are prohibited from visiting those addresses. "It is my hope that this registry would put the power back in the hands of the residents," the councilor said during the hearing. Supporters said the registry protects privacy and helps police distinguish permitted solicitors from unpermitted activity; opponents argued the change places regulatory burden on small businesses and duplicates a homeowner's ability to post a no‑soliciting sign.
The adopted ordinance also adjusts fees and fines for violations, and council asked the town administrator to publish the registry and notify neighboring towns. The motion to adopt the amendments (chapter 5.20, new sections for door‑to‑door commercial solicitation and updated scheduled fees) was seconded and passed by roll call. Councilors and staff said the new process will use digital sign‑up and clarified that political, nonprofit and religious solicitation remains protected under the First Amendment exemptions described in the ordinance.
