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Important News for the |
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Door-to-Door Solicitation Information The Court held that the ordinance violated the First Amendment rights of the Jehovah's Witnesses and those of other people going door-to door for religious or political purposes. The Court stressed the ability of the homeowners to post "No Solicitation" and "No Trespassing" signs on their property and the right to refuse to engage in conversation with unwelcome visitors. The Court suggested that an ordinance applying only to commercial activities and the solicitation of funds could be written by the city to protect the privacy of the residents. Below are some of the frequently asked questions regarding door-to-door solicitation in the City of Fort Worth: 1) What permitting process do solicitors have in order to solicit door-to-door? On September 17, 2002 the City Council amended Section 20-141 through 20-145 of the City Code to require that all persons who go door-to-door for the purpose of offering for sale, or soliciting orders for future delivery of food, services, goods, or merchandise to register with the City. The vendor is required to provide his name, address, the business he represents (if any), a description of what is being sold, the hours and location of the vending activity, the model, make, year, and license plate number of the vehicle and his sales tax ID number. The vendor is not allowed to engage in any business on property that has a "No Soliciting" or "No Trespassing" sign posted or at any place where the vendor has been verbally informed that no solicitation is allowed. A violation of this ordinance could result in a fine up to $500.00. Please note that this ordinance does not apply to any religious or political activity nor does it require a permit or the payment of a fee. 2) What hours of the day are they permitted to conduct these activities ? While the vendor must indicate the hours he/she intends to solicit on the registration form, there is no hour limitation imposed by the City on vendor activity for door-to-door sales. 3) Are the solicitors required to inform the homeowner of their name and what company/business/organization they represent? If you do not want vendors to solicit at your home, I recommend that you place a "No Soliciting" or "No Trespassing" sign in your yard in plain view. Violations should be reported to the Fort Worth Police Department. Please feel free to call me at the number
below if you wish to discuss this issue or by email if you need further
information in writing.
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