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

Denver maintains 204 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 Denver falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Solicitor Permits

Denver requires door-to-door solicitors and peddlers to obtain a Solicitor's License from the Denver Department of Excise and Licenses under DRMC Chapter 6 (Alcoholic Beverages, Marijuana and Certain Activities). Commercial solicitors must carry their license while canvassing and display identification. Religious, political, and nonprofit canvassers are generally exempt from licensing requirements.

Key details: License Required: Yes for commercial solicitors. Issuing Agency: Denver Excise and Licenses. Background Check: Required for license. Allowed Hours: 8 AM to 9 PM. Exemptions: Religious, political, and nonprofit canvassers.

Soliciting without a license is a misdemeanor under DRMC Chapter 6. Fines can reach up to $999. Refusing to leave a property when asked may result in trespassing charges. Soliciting during prohibited hours or in posted 'No Soliciting' areas results in citations. The Department of Excise and Licenses can revoke licenses for violations.

Compared to other cities, Denver takes a harder line on solicitor permits. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

No-Knock Registry

Denver recognizes 'No Soliciting' and 'No Trespassing' signs as enforceable under DRMC trespassing provisions. Solicitors who ignore posted signs or refuse to leave when asked are subject to trespassing charges. Denver does not maintain a citywide no-knock registry but property owners can effectively opt out of solicitation through posted signage.

Key details: No-Knock Registry: No citywide registry exists. Posted Signs: Enforceable against commercial solicitors. Exemptions: Political, religious, and government visitors. Trespassing Code: DRMC §38-5. Reporting: Denver police non-emergency 720-913-2000.

Solicitors who ignore 'No Soliciting' signs face license violations and potential trespassing charges under DRMC §38-5. Trespassing is a misdemeanor in Denver. Property owners can call Denver police non-emergency (720-913-2000) to report solicitors who refuse to leave. Persistent solicitation harassment may support a restraining order.

The Bottom Line

Denver'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 Denver is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Denver's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.