Door-to-Door Soliciting: Know Your Rights*

As spring arrives, neighborhoods become attractive to all types of solicitors. Close-knit communities, well-kept lawns, and sidewalks make our neighborhood a prime target. So, what can a homeowner do if they prefer not to be solicited?

Homeowners' Rights & Local Ordinances

As a private property owner, you have the right to control access to your property, including restricting solicitations and donation requests. Fortunately, our city also has ordinances in place that the Cottages community can leverage to minimize disruptions without relying on CAP resources. However, these governmental regulations are subject to constitutional limits while homeowners can enforce stricter exclusions. Ultimately, you always have the right to refuse entry to solicitors on your doorstep.

Springdale Ordinance 82-1: Door-to-Door Solicitation

Prohibiting Solicitation

The ordinance prohibits solicitation at any residence displaying a "No Soliciting" sign. The Ordinance prohibits solicitors from entering any private property, knocking on a door, ringing the doorbell (my favorite!), or otherwise attempting to gain admittance at the residence when a “No Soliciting” sign is posted. When a sign is posted solicitors may not:

• Approach the property, knock, ring the doorbell (my favorite!), or attempt entry.

• Remain on the property if asked to leave.

  
  

There is no specific sign requirement—acceptable wording includes , "no soliciting/no peddling," "no peddlers," "no solicitors," "no trespassing," or other similar phrases. The city also provides decals to residents. To request a No Soliciting / No Peddling decal be mailed to you, call the City Clerk's Office at 479-750-8118. No Soliciting stickers and yard signs are also available for purchase in the City Clerk's office.

Regulation of Solicitors

The Ordinance requires a permit for all solicitors operating within city limits. Each individual soliciting on behalf of an organization must obtain their own permit. Key permit requirements include:

• A signed statement under oath confirming the applicant has no felony convictions and no misdemeanors related to theft, sexual offenses, or drugs.

• A criminal background check from the Arkansas State Police verifying this information.

At the very least, no one knocking on your door should have a criminal record related to these crimes!

Additional Restrictions

Regardless of whether you have a sign, all solicitors must:

• Display photo identification visibly.

• Carry a copy of their city-issued permit.

• Identify themselves and their organization at the start of any conversation.

Additionally, solicitation is strictly prohibited between:

• 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 a.m. (Standard Time)

• 8:00 p.m. – 10:00 a.m. (Daylight Savings Time)

My sign seems to be effective!

Enforcing the Ordinance

Even with a posted sign, you may still encounter solicitors who ignore the rules as we have learned. Here’s how to handle violations:

1. Ask for the city-issued permit pursuant to Ordinance 82-1 (if you feel comfortable doing so!). If a solicitor cannot provide it, they are likely violating the ordinance. Many leave quickly when questioned about compliance.

2. Report violations to the city. Repeat offenders can face fines up to $1,000 per offense or double that for subsequent violations. Continuous violations may result in daily fines of up to $500 per day, and the city may revoke the violator’s permit.

Exceptions to the Ordinance

Certain individuals and organizations are exempt from all provisions of this ordinance, including:

1. Government officials conducting official business.

2. Charitable, religious, or political solicitors.

   • Charitable organizations must have IRS-issued tax-exempt status to qualify.

   • Political solicitors include those advocating for candidates, political parties, or policy issues.

While these exceptions exist due to legal requirements applicable to the City, homeowners may still refuse entry to any solicitor.

Final Thoughts

If you found this information helpful, give it a “Like”! Contributions are always welcome—please email submissions to the CAP POA.

*This blog reflects my personal opinion and does not constitute legal advice or an official position of the CAP POA.