Ask Abbey: Is door-to-door solicitation allowed?

Ask Abbey

Abbey Scheerer

Is door-to-door solicitation allowed?

Yes, door-to-door salespeople must obtain a permit from the South Fayette Township Police Department. Check for active permits at SouthFayettePA.com/DoorToDoor.

The door-to-door sale of goods and services generally is permitted as long as each salesperson obtains a permit from the South Fayette Township Police Department.

If you spot someone selling door-to-door in your neighborhood and would like to verify the person is permitted, you can check for active permits on the township website: southfayettepa.com/doortodoor.

If the website does not list a salesperson as a permit holder, or if you are unable to access the website, call 911 immediately and ask a police officer to investigate. Please note that calling 911 handles dispatching for all police situations, including non-emergencies. If you call the police station directly, they will ask you to call 911 instead.

All solicitation is prohibited at the following times:

• Before 8:30 a.m.

• After dusk on weekdays

• On Sundays and legal holidays

Solicitors must visibly wear or display their permit at all times. Certain neighborhoods prohibit door-to-door sales.

If you are interested in obtaining a solicitation permit, you can find the application and guidelines on the township website. Submit the application, along with a valid driver's license/ID, current photo and state background check, to the police department’s administrative assistant at least three business days before soliciting, along with a payment of $50 per person, per day.

Any solicitor violating township guidelines is subject to a citation and fine.

Abbey Scheerer is an administrative assistant with South Fayette Township.