Solicitors

In Belton, door-to-door solicitors are regulated through a permitting process administered by the Belton Police Department. The screening of local door-to-door solicitors includes checks for warrants, sex offender status and reports to the Better Business Bureau.

Solicitors that pass the police department's screening process receive a permit with their photo on it. They are instructed to have the permit on them at all times while going door-to-door.

Certain solicitors, such as insurance and alarm companies, are licensed by the state and required to have a state license. These solicitors must follow the city ordinance regarding hours of solicitation (9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sec. 11-87). 

Religious, charitable, youth or school groups are not regulated.

Residents are encouraged to ask to see the permit of any door-to-door solicitor or call the police department, which will come to check to see if the person is permitted. Do not answer the door for solicitors late at night, if you feel uncomfortable or when home alone.

Occasionally, companies drop off van loads of door-to-door solicitors in a community without making an attempt at securing permits. In such cases the Belton Police Department warns or cites individuals for soliciting without a permit.