Soliciting & Door-to-Door in Federal Way, WA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Federal Way or are thinking about moving there, soliciting & door-to-door are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Federal Way has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of soliciting & door-to-door, and some of them might surprise you.

No-Knock Registry

Federal Way residents can post a No Soliciting sign to legally bar commercial door-to-door sales. Ignoring a posted sign constitutes criminal trespass under RCW 9A.52.080 enforceable by Federal Way Police.

Key details: Sign Required: Post visibly at entrance. Commercial: Must leave immediately. Criminal Trespass: RCW 9A.52.080 misdemeanor. Non-Profit: Exempt but usually respectful.

Ignoring a posted No Soliciting sign is criminal trespass under RCW 9A.52.080, a misdemeanor with up to 90 days jail and 1,000 dollars fine. Permitted solicitors also face permit revocation under FWRC Title 12.

Solicitor Permits

Door-to-door solicitors in Federal Way must obtain a Peddler/Solicitor/Transient Merchant License with a background check and Federal Way business registration. Permits include a photo ID badge that must be worn visibly.

Key details: Permit Required: Commercial solicitors, FWRC Title 12. Background Check: WSP WATCH fingerprint check. Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. typical. Exempt: Religious, political, charitable.

Soliciting without a Federal Way permit can be cited as a misdemeanor under FWRC Title 12 with fines up to 1,000 dollars and up to 90 days jail. Ignoring a No Soliciting sign is a separate criminal trespass violation under RCW 9A.52.080.

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

The Bottom Line

Federal Way'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 Federal Way is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Federal Way's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.