Peddlers, Solicitors, and Transient Merchants

For-profit sales of products and services requires a license from the city. Only licensed peddlers and solicitors will have a license and photo ID badge issued by the city. It should be noted that the city does not endorse any products or services being sold by issuing this license.
Non-profit, charitable, or religious groups do not need a license unless they pay their solicitors. However, the city does request that charitable organizations register with the city so that we can inform police and residents of your presence.

Types of applications

Solicitor and Peddler - a license is needed if you plan to go door-to-door selling products or services, or taking future orders within the city.

Transient Merchant - a license is needed for those who are planning on selling products from a temporary location within the city, such as in the parking lot of a retail business. A General Planning Permit may also be required. Contact the Planning Department to find out more information about this permit.

How do I know if they’re licensed?

Every resident and business has the right to prohibit peddlers and solicitors from their property. If you post a sign on your home or business that prohibits solicitors, they are not permitted to approach your property. If a peddler or solicitor approaches you, you have the right to ask to see their city-issued photo ID badge. IDs are printed with the photograph of the solicitor taken by a city employee.

If they cannot show you their ID or they state they are licensed by the State of Minnesota, you have the right to call the police department using 9-1-1 as a non-emergency to report an unlicensed solicitor in your neighborhood.