How Auburn Handles Soliciting & Door-to-Door: A Practical Guide

Auburn maintains 115 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with soliciting & door-to-door. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Auburn falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Solicitor Permits

Auburn requires a solicitor license under ACC 5.20.220 administered by the Auburn Police Department. Commercial door-to-door sales without a license are prohibited and subject to citation.

Key details: Code Reference: ACC 5.20.220. Issuing Agency: Auburn Police Department. Background Check: Required. Order Rules: Written duplicate with permit number.

Operating as a commercial solicitor without a license is a misdemeanor or civil infraction under ACC 5.20 and can result in citation by Auburn Police. Fraud or false statements on the license application are separately criminal under RCW 9A.76.175.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Auburn actively enforces its solicitor permits requirements.

No-Knock Registry

Auburn residents can post a No Solicitors sign to opt out of commercial door-to-door visits. Licensed solicitors must respect the sign under ACC 5.20, and violations can result in citation.

Key details: Sign Effect: Withdraws implied entry license. License Impact: Suspension possible under ACC 5.20. Trespass: Chapter 9A.52 RCW after refusal. Report Line: Auburn Police 253-288-2121.

Ignoring a posted No Soliciting sign can result in a solicitor-license suspension by Auburn Police and criminal trespass charges under Chapter 9A.52 RCW. Aggressive or deceptive practices can also trigger Washington Consumer Protection Act claims.

The Bottom Line

Auburn's soliciting & door-to-door rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Auburn is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Auburn's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.