Door to Door Peddling & Solicitation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
News Contact:
Mary Hamburg, Digital Communications Specialist   
City of Fernandina Beach
204 Ash Street
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
(904) 310-3289
www.fbfl.us

What is peddling?
Peddler or solicitor, in Chapter 26 of the City municipal code, means someone who goes door to door selling goods and services. In Florida, all such persons are required to obtain a permit through the Clerk of Courts. The City’s ordinance requires that peddlers have their permit available at all times.

Is peddling a problem?
Peddling is a customary way for traveling salespersons to conduct business. But, sometimes peddlers can use aggressive tactics and intimidate citizens; or they can be unlicensed companies trying to take advantage of an emergency situation. Additionally, sometimes peddlers aren’t really peddlers, but people “casing” properties.

What types of door-to-door solicitation is allowed?
People knocking on doors to express First Amendment rights, such as political and religious groups, are exempt from the permit required. Nonprofit groups (like supervised schoolchildren selling candy or cookies as a fundraiser) are also exempt.
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What can I do?
If you are concerned about peddling at your home, the best thing to do is to put up a “No Solicitation” sign in a visible spot on your property. If a peddler enters the premises without permission, they are in violation of the ordinance and you can call FBPD.