Friendswood, TX - November 10, 2009 - In Friendswood neighborhoods, it is not uncommon to see solicitors going door-to-door.  Some residents have asked if these vendors have permission from the City to be selling goods and services door-to-door.

The City requires for profit entities soliciting products or services door-to-door in Friendswood to first register with the Police Department and obtain a Solicitor's Permit.  This is for the safety and protection of Friendswood residents.

The solicitors receive a peach-colored identification badge to wear on the front of their clothing so that it can be seen easily.  In order to become registered with the City, solicitors must undergo a local background check in accordance with state regulations.

In addition to door-to-door salesmen, vendors that distribute flyers on doors throughout Friendswood are a concern for some residents.  Flyer distributors are not required to register with the City, as long as they work in a neat and orderly manner.  However, distributing flyers at public events is subject to control by City officials because of concerns with litter and disturbing the peace.

Other salesmen that are selling products from their cars, such as ice-cream trucks or construction caterers, do not have to register with the City, but do need to register and be in compliance with state and county health rules.  Sales venues set up on the side of a state roadway in the easement must have the permission of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).  Likewise, sales venues that temporarily set up on private property should have the permission of the property owner.

For more information about the rules and regulations for door-to-door sales, or for those concerned with a door-to-door salesman's compliance, please call the Police Department at 281-996-3317 or 281-996-3300.