Door-to-door solicitation

The Town of Rutland has a by-law regarding door-to-door solicitation that requires solicitors to obtain a permit, and undergo a fingerprint-based background check. 

• Permit required for all solicitors engaged in sales of goods or services.
• It is unlawful to engage in soliciting without a permit.
• Non-commercial solicitation is exempt (eg religious groups, political purposes)
• Convicted felons, level 2 & 3 sex offenders, and other applicants not of suitable character are ineligible for a solicitation permit.
• Solicitors must display their permit while soliciting and must present it upon the demand of a police officer or person being solicited.
• Solicitation is allowed Mon-Fri between the hours of 8am and 5pm, and on Sat, Sun and holidays between the hours of 9am and 5pm. 
• Soliciting is prohibited at any location displaying a sign prohibiting such, at any location with a "No Trespassing" sign, and at any address listed on the "Do Not Solicit" list. 
• Violations of the by-law could potentially result in suspension or revocation of the Solicitor's permit, a $300 fine, or arrest and criminal prosecution. 

Any person or business interested in conducting door-to-door solicitation should follow the below process: 

• Complete the below application
• Bring completed application to the police department, 8am-3pm, Monday through Thursday
• Bring $150 fees ($50 for application, $100 for fingerprints) cash or check made out to Town of Rutland
• Complete fingerprinting and background check
• Solicitation permit will be issued or denied within 10 business days of applying.
• Licensed Solicitors must review by-law and "Do Not Solicit" List, available below.

• If you have a complaint about a solicitor, please call our dispatch center at 508-886-4033
• If you would like your address added to the "Do Not Solicit" List, contact the Town Clerk's Office via email at - records@townofrutland.org

A list of currently licensed door-to-door solicitors can be found here: